Downtown Sedalia trick-or-treat draws crowds of costumed kids

Published 9:29 pm Monday, November 2, 2026

By Chris Howell

Costumed children and their families filled downtown Sedalia for the annual downtown trick-or-treat event Friday, Oct. 30.

Local businesses and community organizations lined the streets, handing out candy, treats and small gifts to children making their way from one stop to the next.

Ashley Hill Martin, dressed as Maleficent, wasn’t scary enough to frighten away all the little candy-grabbers lined up at her table.

“We’ve been doing this for a long time. I live in La Monte and we actually bring our kids here. We’ve been doing it for years. It’s great,” Martin said.

With children dressed in an assortment of Halloween costumes and crowds filling the sidewalks, Martin said the event offered a good time for everyone.

“Oh, yeah, absolutely. It’s a good time,” Martin said.

Kelly McNeal, owner of Pettis County Real Estate, said the turnout was already impressive less than 30 minutes after the event began.

“I expect a good turnout this year, especially with the weather being so nice,” McNeal said. “It’s a beautiful night to go out and meet people.”

McNeal said seeing the children in their costumes was one of the best parts of participating.

“The kids, they’re so adorable,” McNea said.

Bryan Jenkins, a State Farm agent, said his business has participated in the downtown event since moving to the area four years ago.

Jenkins said the event typically draws a steady stream of families between 3 and 5 p.m., with crowds sometimes lining up several people deep along the sidewalks.

“It’s usually nonstop, Jenkins said. “Two or three people deep all the way up, all the way down.”

He added that the event provides children with a safe and enjoyable place to celebrate Halloween.

“It’s great for the kids. Nice, safe place to get candy,” Jenkins said.

Melissa Stout, representing the Salvation Army, said the organization was distributing small toys, candy and applesauce to visiting children.

Stout said she has participated in the event throughout her nearly nine years with the organization.

“We enjoy it so much. We love seeing the little kids and all their little costumes and how good they look,” Stout said. “It makes it all worth it.”

The annual downtown Sedalia trick-or-treat event is sponsored by Sedalia Main Streets, bringing local businesses and community organizations together to provide a Halloween celebration for area families.

Chris Howell can be reached at 660-530-0146