The practice of decorating vehicle trunks for Halloween and distributing treats is a contemporary adaptation of traditional trick-or-treating. This activity typically involves participants gathering in a designated parking area where vehicles are parked and adorned with decorations. Children then proceed from trunk to trunk to collect candy and other goodies. An example would include decorating a vehicle to resemble a haunted house or a pirate ship, with occupants distributing treats to children who visit the display.
This communal approach to Halloween celebrations offers several advantages, including a contained, often supervised environment which can increase perceived safety for both children and parents. It also provides an opportunity for creative expression and community engagement, fostering a sense of togetherness among participants. While the exact origins are difficult to pinpoint, the rise in popularity coincides with a growing emphasis on family-friendly, community-based holiday activities.