Halloween is going to look a little different this year, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make the most out of this always-fun holiday with the kids. While a traditional trick-or-treat might be out of the question depending on where you live or what your personal risk factors are during this pandemic, we say buy the costumes, break out the camera, and get ready to make some memories anyway!
Traditionally taking place in church or school parking lots to accommodate kids who live in rural areas, apartment buildings, or other situations that aren’t ideal for trick-or-treating, a “trunk or treat” is a gathering of decked-out cars in a lot to celebrate the holiday. This year, the trend will grow with a parking lot serving as the perfect open-air solution for kids to show off their costumes, say hello to friends, and even get some candy if parents approve of swapping, without getting too close. Hey, the best news? Most of the attendees will be in masks!
Here are some of our favorite trunk-or-treat ideas for a non-traditional Halloween in 2020:
Pirate’s Cove
Ahoy, maties! It’s a great time of year for some old fashioned, shiver-me-timbers style fun. These people went over the top and we’re here for it!
Photo: Instagram/cmedesigns
Coffee is a “Treat”
Starbucks lovers unite, because the drive-through is coming through. How cute and fun is this ‘Bucks setup complete with faux brickface and signage? Get extra credit with the parents if you give away a few gift cards for the real deal, among the candy.
Photo: Instagram/crossroads.outreach
Graveyard Vibes
Something spooky this way comes. Bring the graveyard to the parking lot for a perfectly themed Halloween treat that parents and kids alike will just love.
Photo: Instagram/chatwithbee
Make it Super with Mario
Old school video games are never a bad idea. This Mario-themed trunk or treat will be a favorite at any gathering!
Photo: Instagram/scuterdoodsam
Wonderland on Wheels
This fun concept will have the kids swooning. Alice in Wonderland brings the whimsy and the weirdness together for a theme you can really enjoy going all out with.
Photo: Instagram/downsouthballoons
Lagoon Living
Mermaid life is the best life. Bring on the bubbles and bra tops because this theme is going to be a hit!
Photo: Instagram/desert_mermaid_
Baby News!
Been holding on to a sweet little surprise? This is about the cutest way ever to share your news with family, friends, and neighbors at Halloween.
Photo: Instagram/lala_paloozah
Haunted Library
It wouldn’t be Halloween without spooky stories. Show off your inner bookworm with a library themed trunk-or-treat display for something truly special. You can even give out slim or secondhand books as an affordable and sugar-free alternative to candy!
Photo: Instagram/herculeslibrarycclib
Lego Life
“Build” some fun and color into the night with a larger-than-life Lego theme. You can DIY these oversized blocks out of tissue boxes and round cookie molds or the center of ribbon sheaths, glued together and wrapped in bright-colored tissue paper.
Photo: Instagram/every_excuse_for_a_party
Candy is King
Make it epic, make it sweet! The classic board game Candy Land serves as an absolutely perfect backdrop for an over-the-top trunk or treat to remember.
Photo: Instagram/rockriverymca
Where Dinosaurs Roam
Go for a big impact with a Jurassic Park inspired trunk-or-treat mobile that is sure to have jaws dropping. The original poster on Instagram gives some tips on how she created the look.
Photo: Instagram/big_z_little_z
The Bat Cave
Dunna nunna dunna nunna… well, you know! The coolest “man” around is getting a new mobile to ride around town in this Halloween.
Photo: Instagram/vcastillo_23
Dia De Los Muertos
If you’re gonna go for it, go for it. The Day of the Dead gets a major boost with this full-on, colorful scheme.
Photo: Instagram/angelacthompson
All the Way to Arendal
Frozen fans will get a big kick out of this adorably inspired idea from the modern Disney cult classic. You can purchase much of what you need to create a frosty look for your trunk-or-treat here.
Photo: Instagram/melissapenney_
Be the Force
It’s one of those movies that will just never go out of style. Wow everyone at your trunk-or-treat with a Star Wars-decked vehicle that wows. Shop Star Wars Halloween decor here.
Photo: Instagram/soundwave_entertainment
Follow the Yellow Brick Road
Grab your ruby slippers and get the crew on board, because it’s off to see the Wizard, and the bigger you go with this idea, the better!
Photo: Instagram/caylaanders
Christmas in October
After the year we’ve had, everyone could use a little Christmas magic right now! Break out the seasonal decorations a tad early and make some magic happen this Halloween.
Photo: Instagram/asten_davis
Chew on This!
A giant gumball machine? Yes, please. This out-of-control cute idea is actually easier to pull off than you might think. A transparent tarp or extra-large garbage bag with balloons inside does the bulk of the work.
Photo: Instagram/coach2core911
Cat in the Hat… in the Car!
Pay a little homage to Dr. Seuss with a whimsical DIY Cat in the Hat themed trunk or treat that’s easier to pull off than you might think! Click the link for all the details.
Photo & How-To: Home Talk
Happy Camper
Pitch a tent in the trunk and don’t forget the faux campfire! This idea is so cute and pretty simple to recreate.
Photo: 4 Jeannie Marie Blog
