Palos Park Newcomers Welcoming Committee member, Larry Wisowaty, and Palos Park Mayor Nicole Milovich-Walters. (Photo by Kelly White)

Palos Park’s annual Halloween Party and Trick-or-Treating on The Green brought families together for an afternoon of festive fun at the Palos Park Recreation Center.

Children in colorful costumes filled the indoor space, enjoying games, crafts, and treats as part of the village’s seasonal celebration. Outside, a spooky trail on the Village Green added a touch of Halloween magic, where costumed trick-or-treaters wandered through decorated paths collecting candy from volunteers and community groups.

Sofia Contreras, 3, of Palos Park, and her sister, Camila, 4. (Photo by Kelly White)

Several local organizations took part in the festivities, including the Palos Park Woman’s Club, which helped host activities and hand out treats. Palos Park Mayor Nicole Milovich-Walters was also in attendance, dressed as Jessie from Toy Story alongside Palos Park Newcomers Welcoming Committee Member Larry Wisowaty, who came as Woody. The pair added a playful touch to the event as they greeted families and joined in the Halloween fun.

Michele Delaney, of Palos Heights, said she was drawn to the event after spotting it online. “We heard about this on social media and knew we had to check it out,” she said.

Yvonne Contreras, of Palos Park, was a returning attendee who said the village’s events are a big part of what makes the community special.

“We live right down the street and always attend everything Palos Park has to offer,” Contreras said. “This event is one of our favorites because it’s so much fun for the kids.”

The event offered families a safe and lively way to celebrate the holiday while connecting with neighbors and friends. Laughter, creativity, and a few friendly scares made the afternoon a memorable one for both children and parents alike.

Palos Park’s Halloween tradition once again showcased the community’s spirit, turning the Recreation Center and Village Green into a festive gathering place that captured the joy of the season.