Trick-or-treaters can wear their Halloween costumes a couple of days early to collect candy and help needy families on Thursday.
Columbia County is holding its ninth annual Trick-or-Treat So Others Can Eat event from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at Patriots Park.
"It'll be good fun," said Kella Fruehling, a county community events specialist.
Admission is one canned food item per person. The collections benefit the Golden Harvest Food Bank. Last year, the drive collected more than 1,000 pounds of food, Fruehling said.
About 40 businesses will be at the gymnasium to pass out candy to costumed children.
"Last year, we had about 1,700 kids and we're expecting about the same turnout," Fruehling said.
The event also features free hot dogs, children's games and inflatables.
For information, call (706) 868-3483 or visit www. columbiacountyga.gov.
IF YOU GO
What: Trick-or-Treat So Others Can Eat
When: 5:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday
Where: Patriots Park gymnasium, 5445 Columbia Road, Grovetown
Cost: A canned food donation