Annual Halloween event scheduled for downtown - KYTX CBS 19 Tyler Longview News Weather Sports

JACKSONVILLE (TYLER MORNING TELEGRAPH) - Jacksonville children will be able to trick-or-treat downtown on Halloween.

The Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce will host its annual Street Sweets that day from 5 to 6 p.m. at the Norman Activity Center parking lot, 526 E. Commerce St.

During the event, local businesses pass out candy to trick-or-treaters. In the past, participants would spread out along Commerce Street, and last year the event drew close to 4,000 people.

But this year, festivities are targeted toward children 12 years old and younger, and the Street Sweets area will have a controlled entrance and exit, according to a chamber news release.

"It's just kind of a way to have it more controlled," Kayla Stephenson, project coordinator for the chamber, said. "From talking to past people (who've done the event), it (can be) overwhelming, and there are thousands of kids. We want to give a lot (of candy) out, but have it more controlled."

Admission for trick-or-treaters is a canned good, bag of candy or $1 per family. Ms. Stephenson said the canned goods will go to nonprofit Helping Others Pursue Enrichment; the $1 fee will go to the area crisis center; and the bags of candy will be for businesses to give out the night of Street Sweets.

"For me, personally, this option would feel safe bringing my kids here because it is going to be controlled, and … you're getting something out of it (while also giving back)," Ms. Stephenson said.

She said she doesn't know how the admission will affect attendance, but the chamber hopes to have a good turnout.

Merchants who are participating in Street Sweets are asked to bring candy, signage for their business and "a good time," according to a chamber news release. Tables and chairs will be provided, and merchants are asked to confirm their participation by Monday, the release states.

For more information about the event, contact the chamber at 903-586-2217.