Sweet Celebration: Community Trick-or-Treating Event Turns 10 This Weekend

What began as a simple idea shared on social media has turned into one of Bellevue’s biggest and most beloved community traditions. The Olde Towne Bellevue Trick-or-Treat event returns this Sunday, October 26, celebrating its 10th anniversary from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. along Mission Avenue and Franklin Street.

The event first came to life in 2016, when longtime Olde Towne business owner Margie Crawford, then owner of A Bridal Boutique and Tux, turned a casual online conversation about having a community trick-or-treat into a real event. What was expected to draw a few hundred children that first year instead brought in more than 1,500 costumed kids — and it’s grown ever since.

Today, the event attracts an estimated 2,500 attendees each year and remains a highlight of Bellevue’s fall calendar.

After organizing the celebration for 7 years, Crawford moved out of town in 2023 but ensured the tradition continued. Before leaving, she connected with the Bellevue Police Department, who in turn reached out to the Bellevue Community Foundation to take over event leadership.

“Margie really built something special,” said Phil Davidson, president of the Bellevue Community Foundation. “When she moved, she wanted to make sure it stayed alive. The Foundation and the Police Department were glad to step up to help keep it going.”

This year’s event promises another evening of family fun, with over 50 groups, organizations, and local businesses signed up to hand out candy. The weather forecast looks favorable, calling for overcast skies and a high near 60°F — ideal trick-or-treating weather.

To prepare for the crowd, the Bellevue Police Department will close Mission Avenue from Washington Street to Hancock Street, and Franklin Street will be blocked off from West 21st Avenue to 23rd Street at 3:00 p.m. to allow for setup and ensure pedestrian safety. Three portable restrooms will also be available for attendees.

Organizers say the 10-year milestone is a testament to the spirit of collaboration that defines Bellevue.

“This event has always been about community,” Davidson said. “It brings people together — families, businesses, and organizations — all to create a safe, fun experience for kids, and we are excited with the way it’s grown.”

With plenty of treats and smiles to go around, Bellevue’s decade-old Halloween tradition shows no signs of slowing down.

“We can’t wait to see everyone for a safe, festive, and candy-filled Halloween celebration,” Davidson said.

• Bellevue Community Foundation
• Bellevue Chamber of Commerce
• Bellevue Police Department
• Bellevue Fire Department
• Bellevue Streets Department
• BJSA
• Bellevue Dance Academy
• Life Your Best Life Salon
• Mr. B’s Photography
• First Baptist Church
• Chick-fil-A Bellevue
• Stacy Schoonover – Berkshire Hathaway Realty
• Aqua Tots Swim School
• Venture Church
• Walmart Neighborhood Market Bellevue
• Bellevue Mayor’s Youth Council
• Belledonna Tattoo Studio
• Hike Real Estate
• Centris Credit Union
• Absolute Tattoos
• Bellevue Alumni Association
• Bellevue Alumni Band
• Bellevue Tire & Auto
• Paw Master Pet Parlor
• Evolve Realty
• All Seasons Church
• Bellevue Togethor
• Freedom Cruisers Riding Club
• Olde Town Tails
• Bellevue Masonic Lodge
• Sarpy County Democrats
• Color Smith Co. Salon
• Autism Learning Collaboration
• Fastwyre Broadband
• Lift Up Sarpy
• Do It Big Custom Tile
• Olde Town Tavern
• Buffalo Wild Wings
• Bellevue Girls Wrestling
• Century Lounge
• Black Dragon – Martial Arts
• The Light House
• Bellevue Rotary Club
• Dairy Twist
• Dip Cravers
• Bellevue Knights of Columbus
• Bellevue Eagles

| Pictures provided by Phil Davidson |