Westlake calls itself “a city united.” At the end of this month, the city’s recreation department, civic groups, schools and churches will demonstrate its unity Sunday, Oct. 30, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Pinderosa Park, 2900 Westwood Rd., Westlake.

It’s the first ever event of its kind in Westlake. The public – not just Westlake residents – are invited to attend and enjoy fall festivities that, so far, include seven food trucks and 50 trunks with over 400 pounds of candy.

Costumes should be family friendly. 

“Our church has had a trunk or treat since I’ve been here,” said Lora DeVille, children’s minister at First Baptist Church Westlake. “But after the pandemic and hurricanes, I felt like our church should really go all out because the community needed something to bring us together again. Over 1,900 people attended.”

This year, DeVille talked to her pastor about going even bigger and partnering with other churches and groups to produce a full-blown fall festival and trunk-or-treat. He thought it was a good idea, and so did other church leaders of various denominations who had always been accustomed to having their own trunk or treat every year.

“I am so thankful for all the civic clubs, churches and schools who are working together to make this a safe, fun, family-friendly occasion,” DeVille said. “For me, it’s a chance to love like Jesus.”

Yes, there will be candy and family fun, but DeVille is especially pleased to be able to share the gospel with children who want to hear about it, in an especially creative, autumnal way.

“Matthew 19:14 reads, ‘Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these (NIV). It’s up to us to lay the proper foundation for the next generation,” DeVille said.  “Kids can do mighty work for the kingdom, just look at David and Goliath.”