Downtown Dixon was filled with costumed families, decorated storefronts and community spirit Oct. 31 during the city’s annual Halloween Hunt and Trunk or Treat events. Photo by Nicolas Brown

DIXON, CA (MPG) - Downtown Dixon was filled with costumed families, decorated storefronts and community spirit Oct. 31 during the city’s annual Halloween Hunt and Trunk or Treat events.

The Halloween Hunt took place from 1 to 4 p.m. in the downtown district, where local businesses opened their doors to trick-or-treaters. Many stores offered candy, games and special Halloween deals. Members of the Downtown Dixon Business Association (DDBA) and volunteers transformed the area with cobwebs, pumpkins and festive window displays to create a spooky, family-friendly atmosphere. Crossing guards were stationed at every intersection to ensure participants’ safety.

Businesses large and small joined in the celebration. Nino Tomelloso, owner of Nino’s Cut and Shave, said he has participated for 12 years.

Members of the Downtown Dixon Business Association (DDBA) and volunteers transformed the area with cobwebs, pumpkins and festive window displays to create a spooky, family-friendly atmosphere. Photo by Nicolas Brown

“I love it,” said Tomelloso. “I love seeing the kids dress up, handing out candy and seeing our clients.”

At The Venue, co-owner Beri Gonzalez said she and her team enjoyed seeing the excitement.

“We’re happy to participate in the day’s events and see the kids,” said Gonzalez. “We have great decorations inside for people to stop by and take pictures.”

Nearby, Dawson’s bartender Amber Jennings said Halloween is always a favorite time of year.

“We love it,” said Jennings. “It’s one of our favorite holidays, and it’s right down here so we can see all the kids' cool costumes.”

Community organizations also took part in the festivities. The Dixon Library hosted its first-ever haunted maze from noon to 2 p.m. Library representative Ricky Gjertsen said it was designed with help from volunteers.

First responders, including the Dixon Police Department and Dixon Fire Department, were present to interact with the community. Ricky Rodarte of the Dixon Firefighters Charitable Fund considers the event an opportunity to give back. Photo by Nicolas Brown

“The maze is something we came up with in the early part of summer,” said Gjertsen. “It’s been a phenomenal experience, and a lot of kids who’ve been through it said it’s fantastic.”

According to Gjertsen, the library also distributed candy, pencils, temporary tattoos, stickers and flyers for upcoming November events.

“It helps connect us to the local community,” said Gjertsen. “People who don’t come to the library see us out here with our event swag, and it makes us accessible.”

The Dixon Historical Society also participated. The museum joined in with a trivia card giveaway where participants could answer questions at the museum for a chance to win more than $100 worth of merchandise in December.

First responders joined in the fun as well, handing out candy and interacting with the community they serve. According to Lt. Jenna Cameron of the Dixon Police Department, officers enjoy being visible and approachable during community events.

Around 16 businesses and organizations participated in the event, including Nino’s Cut and Shave, Dawson’s Bar & Grill, and Calvary Chapel, which handed out candy and scripture. Cynde’s Place was supported by the efforts of Lynda Westwood (left) and Carrie Senecal. Photo by Nicolas Brown

“We’ve been doing this for years,” said Cameron. “So the community knows that we’re here. You can come up and talk to officers, and the little kids love to see us.”

Vice President Ricky Rodarte of the Dixon Firefighters Charitable Fund says his group has participated for about eight years.

“Being a firefighter is not just about running calls,” said Rodarte. “It’s about being part of the community. Not just on-the-clock, but off-duty guys are out here to give something back.”

Several students volunteered to pass out candy at the event for community service hours and outreach purposes.

“We have to do five community hours each month for our Gov. and Econ class,” said Dixon High School student Giselle Leon.

In order to guarantee the safety of families enjoying the event, crossing guards were posted at each major intersection in the area. Photo by Nicolas Brown

Leon was joined by Yvette Gutierrez, a member of the high school’s Future Farmers of America (FFA) program.

“On the FFA side, we’re trying to do more outreach in the community, especially with younger kids,” said Gutierrez.

Just a few blocks away, the Dixon Chamber of Commerce hosted its Trunk or Treat from 2 to 5 p.m. in the Chamber parking lot, 220 N. Jefferson St. The event featured decorated car trunks, free candy, glow sticks, pumpkin decorating and music.

The Dixon Chamber of Commerce hosted its Trunk or Treat from 2 to 5 p.m. in the Chamber parking lot. The event featured decorated car trunks, free candy, glow sticks, pumpkin decorating and music. Photo by Nicolas Brown

Chamber manager Sara Echarte said the event saw strong participation.

“I’m very excited,” said Echarte. “We’ve had 16 Chamber members participate this year, which is more than last year. It should be very successful.”

Dixon residents Lisa Vinnard and Cynthia Salter said they come every year.

“We’ve come the last couple of years, we bring our own candy and love it,” said Vinnard. “We love the kids.”

As dusk settled over downtown, Dixon’s Halloween celebrations once again showcased the city’s strong sense of community, where neighbors, businesses and families came together to share in the spirit of the season.