Main Street in Center Moriches came alive with ghosts, ghouls, and goblins as the Chamber of Commerce of the Moriches hosted its annual trick or treat event, closing the street to traffic and opening it to hundreds of costumed kids and families.
A festival feeling ran through the crowd, shop windows were decked out in orange and black, local businesses handed out sweets, and music filled the October air. The Chamber credits strong local participation and growing enthusiasm for making the event, known as the March of the Goblins, bigger and better every year.
Local elected officials joined in the fun as County Executive Ed Romaine and Town Supervisor Dan Panico—both Center Moriches residents—greeted trick-or-treaters alongside Legislator Jim Mazzarella and Town Clerk Kevin LaValle, handing out candy to the delighted crowd.
Dressing up as they do every year were Jill Vigliarolo and Amy Weinhauer of the Country Cottage Diner. “Everyone really goes all out with their costumes,” Amy remarked.
“It’s a great way to start the holiday season and share a little love,” exclaimed Tova Keblish of Gavin’s Treasures. County Executive Romaine agreed: “The kids don’t have to go door-to-door in the dark. This makes Halloween special.” Supervisor Panico, who tinted his hair blue for the occasion, called it “a phenomenal day of costumes and smiles.”
According to the Chamber’s Gerri Sapanaro, the event grows larger every year. “The kids get so excited and the parents enjoy it too,” she said, noting that the adults often have the best costumes.
Meanwhile, over in Mastic Beach, American Legion Post 1533 hosted a well-attended Trunk or Treat, offering candy and a safe place for Halloween fun, according to the post’s Service Officer Glenn O’Connell. In Medford, Assemblyman Joe DeStefano and Senator Dean Murray drew a crowd to their Fifth Annual Halloween event.