MANATEE COUNTY, FL (Oct. 2, 2020) – This year, Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department is offering a safe and unique way to trick-or-treat that avoids the large crowds.
The 18th Annual Goblin Gathering will be a drive-through only event at GT Bray Park held from 6-9 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 16. Drive-through participation and trick-or-treating is free. Several local businesses will be participating by passing out “treats & sweets” to attendees.
Adults and children can also participate in the online costume contest for a chance to win prizes. The costume contest will be hosted on the Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department’s Facebook page. People can submit photos in their best costumes from now until Oct. 16. Staff will judge the costumes and the winners will be announced on Monday, Oct. 19, and they will be eligible to pick up a candy-filled pumpkin from GT Bray.
The Goblin Gathering will be celebrated in conjunction with National Night Out at G.T. Bray Park. National Night Out is a program to strengthen neighborhood spirit and create police-community partnerships to make our community a safe place to live.
Directions
GT Bray Park is located at 5502 33rd Avenue Drive, West Bradenton, FL 34209. For the drive-through, please enter at 51st Street and exit at 59th Street.
Trick or treating in Manatee County
This year, trick or treaters should stay home if they're sick. Kids should trick or treat with people you live with and stay 6 feet apart from people not in your household. Wear a face mask covering both your mouth and nose while you're around others. Sanitize your hands (with sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol) frequently while you're out, especially during key times like before eating or after coughing/sneezing.
Homeowners should not hand out candy if you're sick. Wear a face mask covering both your mouth and nose around people outside not in your household. Keep a table in between yourself and trick or treaters. Consult the CDC's website for additional safety tips throughout the upcoming holiday season.