(La Porte, IN) - An estimated 1,500 children took part in the annual trick or treating in downtown La Porte over the weekend.  For two hours Saturday, children in Halloween costumes went to over 30 businesses handing out candy during Spooktacular, which also featured games and a hay maze at Plaza 618.  

“So much fun.  Everybody was in a good mood getting candy,” said Charity Hlavsa, owner of Hotspot Café and president of the La Porte Small Business Coalition, which sponsors the event.  “It’s just a great way for the small businesses of La Porte to give back to the community,” she said.

Businesses along Lincolnway and State St. took part in the event from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.  Hlavsa said the downtown was crowded at times with trick or treaters, who were for the most part spread out throughout much of the central business district.  “There were some packed sidewalks from time to time, which just made my heart happy,” she said.