Hidden Lake’s Annual Trunk or Treat: A Spooktacular Showcase of Creativity!

ChatGPT said: Neighbors gathered for a fun-filled afternoon of candy, cider, and creativity, where themed trunks ranging from an African Safari to Disney Villains—and families decked out in incredible costumes—made this year’s celebration one you’ll want to read all about!

The Hidden Lake community came together on Sunday, October 26, for one of the most anticipated events of the year — the Annual Trunk or Treat! Hosted by the Hidden Lake Social Committee, the parking lot was once again transformed into a Halloween wonderland bursting with creativity, laughter, and neighborhood fun.

Families went all out, turning their trunks into themed masterpieces that ranged from frightfully spooky to laugh-out-loud funny. From the decorations to the family costumes, the afternoon was packed with imagination, community spirit, and plenty of sugar-fueled smiles.

The Social Committee made sure everyone stayed energized, serving mountains of candy, fresh apple cider, and donuts, and even a splash of grown-up cheer for those who requested it. Thanks to mild October weather and fantastic participation, the afternoon was picture-perfect from start to finish.

This year’s winners truly brought their A-game:

Most Creative: The Dreslinski Family — brought the wild to Hidden Lake with an African Safari–themed trunk and matching family costumes that transported trick-or-treaters straight to the savanna.

Funniest: The Simpson Family — had everyone laughing (and snacking!) with “Trunkin’ Donuts,” a playful Dunkin’ Donuts parody complete with real donuts and coffee. Claire Alcala was beaming as she accepted the award.

Scariest: The Sonnichsen Family — sent shivers down spines with a giant inflatable clown trunk, where kids got to grab candy through the clown’s legs — if they dared!

First Place Overall: The McCaughan Family — stole the show with a full Disney Villains theme, complete with family costumes featuring Maleficent, Ursula, Jafar, the Witch from Snow White, Captain Hook, Cruella DeVille, and the Evil Queen. A truly wickedly perfect crew!

Second Place Overall: The Repovz Family — melted hearts with their Firehouse theme, transforming their trunk into a fire engine complete with cutout flames. The grandparents dressed as police officers, the grandkids as firefighters, and the littlest ones as dalmatians — absolutely adorable!

Third Place Overall: The Welsh Family — nailed the nostalgia with their Ghostbusters theme! Mom and Dad suited up as Ghostbusters, their little one stole the show as the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man, and their older son made an appearance as a spooky “Scream” character — the perfect mix of spooky and sweet.

The fun didn’t stop there — the Zajac family added extra flair, dressing as characters from The Descendants: Jen as Maleficent, Jeff as Jafar, Brooklynn as Mal, Jaxson as Carlos, and Sarah as Snow White.

From frightfully creative setups to sweet community connections, this year’s Trunk or Treat was one for the books. A huge thank-you to the Hidden Lake Social Committee and all the residents who decorated, participated, and helped make this annual tradition such a spooktacular success!