Arnold Chamber's Trunk or Treat Returns Friday Oct 23 with over 40 Trunks, 2 Haunted Houses, and a Food Drive

Families looking for Halloween fun can head to Fox Elementary School this Friday, October 23, as the Arnold Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual Trunk or Treat and Food Drive from 6 to 8 p.m.

The popular community tradition will feature 42 decorated trunks, Halloween candy, games, music and entertainment, all completely free for families to enjoy. This year's celebration will also introduce a new attraction: two haunted house experiences inside Fox Elementary School.

The event will take place in the school's parking lot at 739 Jeffco Boulevard in Arnold.

Something New This Halloween

During a recent presentation, Arnold Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Courtney Sokolis shared details about the event's expansion.

For the first time, Fox Elementary School will open portions of its building to visitors, offering two different haunted house experiences designed for different age groups.

Younger children will be able to explore a less frightening, family-friendly haunted house inside the gymnasium, while older children and those seeking more of a scare can venture through a spookier hallway attraction.

Sokolis credited the school's new principal for helping make the addition possible, explaining that he was enthusiastic about opening the building to families for the first time during this event.

Beyond the haunted houses, families will find plenty of activities throughout the event. A total of 42 decorated trunks will be participating, with local businesses, organizations and community members handing out candy and providing Halloween fun for children of all ages.

The upper parking lot will be transformed into the Monster Bash area, where a DJ will provide music and special lighting to add to the Halloween atmosphere. Several participating businesses will also offer games and interactive activities for children.

The Arnold Police Department will be among the participating organizations, giving families an opportunity to interact with local law enforcement while enjoying the festivities.

OCI will also be bringing equipment for children to check out, adding an exciting hands-on attraction for youngsters who enjoy seeing the large vehicles and machinery used by local businesses.

Other participants in the Trunk or Treat include A.C. Towing, Gaitway Inc, Brightway Insurance, Miles to Explore, Texas Roadhouse, and many more. The Chamber has also added the game themed trunks near the upper lot with the DJ.

Fire and EMS equipment will also be part of the event, with designated parking spaces that allow emergency responders to leave quickly if they receive a call.

A Halloween Tradition That Gives Back

While the event promises plenty of treats, its larger purpose is supporting families in need throughout the Arnold community.

The Chamber is partnering with Gateway Food Pantry in Arnold to collect nonperishable food donations.

Attendees are encouraged to bring canned goods or other nonperishable food items to help stock the pantry. A collection truck will be stationed near the event entrance so families can drop off donations without carrying them through the festivities.

Donations are encouraged but are not required for admission.

Sokolis emphasized that keeping the event accessible to everyone remains a priority.

"We really stick, tried and true, to the fact that this event is community free, and there's nothing on site that is charged for that day," Sokolis told commissioners.

Unlike many community festivals, the event will not feature food trucks or paid vendors, a deliberate decision intended to keep the evening entirely free.

Thousands Expected to Attend

The Chamber's Trunk or Treat has become a significant annual community gathering, regularly attracting approximately 2,500 to 3,000 attendees, according to Sokolis.

With 42 participating trunks, additional entertainment and the new haunted houses, organizers are preparing for another large crowd.

The Chamber is also coordinating with participating businesses, emergency responders, and volunteers to help the evening run smoothly.

Sokolis expressed appreciation for the many organizations helping bring the celebration together.

"We are grateful for all the Community support because it is not possible without all of you," she said.

Event Details

What: Arnold Chamber of Commerce Trunk or Treat & Food Drive

When: Friday, October 23, 2026

Time: 6–8 p.m.

Where: Fox Elementary School Parking Lot, 739 Jeffco Boulevard, Arnold, MO 63010

Admission: Free for all families

Activities: 42 decorated trunks, candy, games, DJ, Monster Bash, and two haunted house experiences.

Community Drive: Bring nonperishable food donations for Gateway Food Pantry in Arnold.

Whether families come for the candy, the haunted houses or simply an evening together, the Chamber hopes the celebration will provide another opportunity for Arnold residents to have fun while helping neighbors in need.