By Brian ROXAS

One of the greatest aspects of La Crescenta is the liveliness of the community during holidays. This Halloween, evidence was everywhere: ordinary houses were transformed through festive decorations, young ghouls and goblins roamed the streets with their friends, and exciting events were held throughout the area. One event both fun and safe was held at the First Baptist Church at La Crescenta: the Fall Family Festival.

“It was designed as a safe way for people to participate in Halloween. People can come and play all the games they want for free, enjoy the jump house, the cake walk, the live, and they can win candy,” said Master Secretary of First Baptist Church Tyla Break.

Crescenta Valley Community Church had hosted the event for several years, but after a while, were unable to continue. So as the First Baptist Church had a large parking area where such an event could be held, they began hosting the festival in 2003.

They have continued to hold the event annually ever since, except for 2005, and every year it has grown larger. Now over six churches from around the area collaborate to set up live music, games, cake walks, chili cook-offs, costume contests and more.

One aspect of the festival that is particularly unique is the “trunk-or-treat.” Instead of going door-to-door, children go from car trunk-to-car trunk of different vehicles set up at the church to get candy. This way, participants of the festival can still get candy, but in a safer environment.

Despite so many activities, the festival actually costs very little, if anything.

“We don’t purchase the candy if we don’t have to, people bring their own chili, people purchase the pizza and hot dogs, and we receive some donations,” Break said. “First Baptist may put out a little bit initially, but it mostly comes back to us.”

  CV Community Church, fall festival