The Champaign Park District hosted its 8th annual Halloween costume giveaway on Saturday, offering people of all ages the chance to find something fun for the fall season.
Throughout the past month, community members donated their old costumes to the drive, resulting in over one hundred options to choose from this year. Lynne Franco, program coordinator of youth and teens for the Champaign Park District, said the idea came from a former board member and the marketing department.
“All these costumes are getting just thrown away. People have costumes in the back of their closet. Maybe we should do something about that,” Franco said. “It’s a chance to clean out these closets and also pick out something new.”
Nearly 40 people, mostly families with children, lined up outside the Douglass Community Center at 10 a.m., eagerly waiting for the doors to open.
“I’m here to find a costume that would look good,” said 11-year-old Aaron Polaczek, holding a mask and a medieval-style costume. “Kind of like something scary.”
Destry Downs, a community member who attended with her husband and two daughters, said she appreciates the environmental and financial benefits of the event.
“They can actually just use recycled materials, which is eco-friendly and cost-effective for the city,” Downs said. “I think it gives so much joy to the kids, and it’s great that they’re not limited by finances.”
Costume racks, featuring all sizes from infant to adult, were accompanied by tables filled with accessories and props. People combed through the racks and took time to try on their costumes, before heading out with their new Halloween outfits.
Sene Downs-Robertson, 6, said she can’t wait for Halloween to arrive.
“My sister’s really excited about the candy, and I’m excited to see everyone’s costumes,” she said.