Delavan transformed into a Halloween wonderland this past Thursday evening, as hundreds of costumed children—ghouls, ghosts, goblins, and more—roamed the streets in search of treats, and the occasional trick. From classic porch setups to elaborate haunted house scenes, the town came alive with community spirit and spooky charm.
Legion Leads the Parade
The festivities kicked off with the beloved American Legion Post 382 Halloween Parade and Costume Contest. Marchers paraded down Locust Street to Third, then turned toward the Legion Hall, where the Legion Auxiliary welcomed them with punch, cookies, and a warm smile. Costumes were judged by age group, thanks to Auxiliary members Christy Hart, Brenda Christensen, and Susie Hill. Meanwhile, Chris Christensen, Penny Bright, and Missy Schmitz kept the kids organized and well-fed with juice and cookies.
Holy Ghost Wiener Roast Warms the Night
Just down South Locust, the Delavan United Methodist Church hosted its annual “Holy Ghost Wiener Roast.” Trick-or-treaters gathered around a crackling bonfire, perched on hay bales, roasting marshmallows and hot dogs. Beth and Doug Zimmer, Mary Ann Day, and Pastor David Kelly made sure every child had a seat, a snack, and a smile.
Fire House Offers Sweet Relief
The Delavan Fire House joined the celebration with a trick-or-treat station of its own, offering hot chocolate to warm visitors along their chilly trek for treats. The station became a cozy stop for families needing a break and a bit of warmth before continuing their Halloween adventure.
Trunk-or-Treat Brings Halloween to All
For people in less accessible parts of town, the Delavan Baptist Church on East Fifth Street offered a festive Trunk-or-Treat. Decorated vehicles lined the lot, ensuring everyone could join in the Halloween fun, no matter where they lived.
Police Pitch In
On West Third Street, the Delavan Police Department pitched a tent on a vacant city-owned lot. Chief Michael Evans and Sgt. April Schrementi handed out candy and high-fives, adding a layer of safety and sweetness to the night.
A Polar Bear Steals the Show
Among the sea of costumes, one towering figure stood out—an illuminated inflatable polar bear that could be seen approaching from blocks away. It quickly became a crowd favorite, drawing gasps, giggles, and plenty of photo ops as it lumbered through the streets.
A Haunted Tea Party at the Skinner House
One of the most talked-about stops was the Skinner house, where trick-or-treaters were invited into a haunted dining room for a wicked tea party. Wendy Sweigart, dressed in full witch regalia, welcomed guests inside, while Liz Skinner—another witch in full costume—offered tea with a warning: drink at your own risk. Most opted for candy instead. Outside, Steve Skinner kept the cauldron bubbling with dry ice, adding eerie ambiance to a tradition that’s spanned 25 years and now welcomes multiple generations.
Porch Parties and Fireside Greetings
Unlike many towns where trick-or-treating is a doorbell dash, Delavanites embraced the evening with warmth and creativity. Residents gathered in yards with roaring fires, decorated porches, and lawn chairs, greeting costumed kids with candy and conversation. Houses averaged between 200 and 300 trick-or-treaters, a testament to the town’s Halloween spirit.
A Visitor’s Perspective
“I have never seen so many kids on Halloween, and I grew up on the South Side of Chicago,” said Edward Condon of Benton, Illinois. “I think small towns do Halloween much better than the big cities.” Condon was visiting his sister, Linda Slabaugh, who greeted trick-or-treaters dressed as Cruella DeVille.
From the parade to the haunted tea party, Delavan’s Halloween was a celebration of community, creativity, and good old-fashioned fun. As the last candy wrappers fluttered away and the bonfires dimmed, one thing was clear: Delavan knows how to do Halloween right.