A spooktacular tradition is returning to Washougal’s Main Street for the first time in years.
More than a dozen downtown Washougal businesses and organizations will host a family-friendly trick-or-treat event from 3 to 5 p.m. Tuesday.
“It should be a fun event,” said event organizer Tabitha Schmer, an agent for Cascadia NW Real Estate. “Based on the feedback and responses that I’m getting already, I have a feeling that it is going to become a much larger event than I had anticipated, which is amazing for the community. It seems like a win-win (for community members and businesses).”
Community members “are invited to come downtown in costume and meet local business owners,” according to Valerie Ross, owner of the Music Con Brio piano studio on Main Street.
Business owners will pass out candy to children, who will have the option to collect stamps on a “passport” card and collect prizes for visiting all of the participating locations.
“I’m hoping (this event) will draw families into our downtown area, show off some of the great shops and restaurants that have opened in the last few years, and provide a much-needed space to meet our neighbors,” Ross said. “I think we’re all craving face-to-face interaction and a sense of belonging after the loneliness of the pandemic. I’m excited to get involved with events like this that help to build connection and community in Washougal.”
The event will provide parents with a “safe place” to take their kids trick-or-treating, according to Schmer.
“There’s a lot of families with younger kids that don’t want to be out at night. They need a safe space where they can take their kiddos,” she said. “They can trick-or-treat and be home and in bed by 7 p.m. or 8 p.m. for the really young ones. This gives them that opportunity.”
Participating businesses and organizations include Anytime Fitness, C-W Chamber of Commerce, Cascadia NW Real Estate, Chinese Cafe, Dakima Maria Boutique, Forest Moon Yoga, J Teriyaki, Music Con Brio, Titus Elevators, Trap Door Brewing, Washougal Barbershop, Washougal City Hall, Washougal Eagles 4390, the Washougal library, Washougal Hardware, and Washougal Sport and Spine.
“It’s been so cool to see businesses come together and create an event to connect with families in the community,” Ross said. “I’ve met so many wonderful people at other Main Street businesses. All the business owners I’ve talked to are so passionate about serving the community and building a safe, family-friendly environment to shop, eat and connect with neighbors.”
