Downtown Flocked with Trick or Treaters
By City Journal Staff at November 3, 2023 | 2:30 pm | Print
Halloween was a night to remember in downtown New Britain as about 5,000 ghost, goblins, princesses and super heroes roamed the streets reciting ‘trick or treat’ as bags filled with candy.
“Halloween night we produced the 5th installment of the Downtown Halloween Trick or Treat Safe Zone, well over 5,000 children and their parents safely walked the streets, and 30+ candy distribution stops gave out over 55,000 pieces of candy (over 3/4 of a ton!),” said Gerry Amodio, downtown district director. “This grass roots community effort is the brain child of Robin Vinci the owner of the New Britain City Journal. Of course this event could not happen without the support of many people, especially the City and the NBPD & NB DPW.”
Amodio said one moment stood out to him the most.
“The most rewarding moment was towards the end, when I was standing with Lt. John Rodriguez and Sgt. Steven King and this little boy, not more than 4 years old, came up to the officers and gave them fist bumps, then as he walked away he looked up to them and said in this hushed little voice, ‘Thank you for your service’,” said Amodio. “That was an example of some great parenting, and another example why New Britain is a Great Place to Live, Work & Play!”
The New Britain Trick or Treat Safe Zone Committee has been working for months on this event. Fundraisers were held and over $4,000 was raised thanks to the community.
“It could not happen if there were not so many generous people in our City,” said Robin Vinci. “There is nothing quite like seeing the faces on the small children on Halloween night. Parents can be so creative with costumes. Putting this together is a lot of work, but you can’t put a price on fun.”
“It was amazing and we all should be very thankful that you came up with this idea a few years ago.” said Alderman Jim Sanders Jr. “Let’s hope we can keep this going for many years to come. Great job and great idea Robin, The downtown district, the city of New Britain and to all those who volunteered or donated!”
“I had a blast, our Girl Scouts got to help and enjoyed themselves during the event,” said Juanita Santana. “I didn’t get to see the rest of the event since I stayed at our location throughout the event. But did like that the main stage was at the park. Great location and loved that I saw more cars/tables near Central Park!”
The YWCA School of dance performed “Thriller” at Central Park. CCSU students were located in The Plaza building holding various events. In the Visitor’s Center the Artists’ Co-op held a haunted house. There were two DJ’s and special events were held in front of City Hall by Mayor Erin Stewart.
A costume parade began at 7 p.m. which was led by Sting of the New Britain Bees. It was emceed by Stephen Hard. There were 9 children winners who received gift certificates from Amato’s Toy and Hobby. Three adult prizes were given out including Bees tickets, Great Taste and Frosty Mug gift certificates.
Sponsors included The New Britain Bees, NB Police Union, Dunkin’ Donuts, Sgt. Dave Mocarsky & Lt. John Rodriquez, Jaws Pawn Shop, Ald. Willie Pabon, Ald. Danny Salerno, Ald. Don Naples, Ald. Jamie Giantonio, Mayor Erin E. Stewart, Maria Pietrantuono, an Anonymous Donor, John Luddy, Costco, Roma Bar and Grill, West Side Tavern, Willie Pep’s, Max Pizza II, Pizza Pal, Diamond Brite Car Wash, Catanzaro Meats, Polumbo Jewelers and New Britain McDonald’s.
