by Sylene Argent, Local Journalism Initiative
Rain clouds held off just long enough to allow the hundreds of children participating in the annual Tiny Tot Trick-or-Treat Parade on Friday morning a chance to hop into their costumes and celebrate the Halloween season early.
Every year, the Essex Centre BIA hosts the event, which not only gives little ones a chance to trick-or-treat in the downtown business core, but also allows businesses an opportunity to connect with the community.
While taking their youngsters from business-to-business, parents, grandparents, and chaperons are able to window shop and get an up-close look at the improvements made during last year's Essex Centre Streetscape project, where the finishing touches were wrapped-up this summer.
The Essex Centre BIA is grateful to the Essex District High School leadership students who dress up and line Talbot Street for a chance to hand out some candy. The efforts of the OPP, Essex & Fire Rescue, and the Town of Essex were also appreciated for shutting down the road to vehicular traffic, so that everyone could trick-or-treat safely.
All participants were encouraged to provide a donation of non-perishable food items to participate in the Tiny Tot Parade, which will be forwarded to local food banks in support of families and individuals facing economic hardships.
Please see more photos on our website: www.essexfreepress.com