AVA, Mo. — Families will have an expanded way to celebrate Halloween this year as Ava’s Trail of Treats returns for its second year Saturday, Oct. 31, at Ava City Park.
The event will be held at Ava City Park, 1005 Johnson Ave., with the Trail of Treats beginning at 5:30 p.m.
This year will also mark a change for one of Ava’s longest running Halloween traditions. The Ava Lions Club Halloween Costume Contest, held for more than 80 years, is moving from the gazebo on the Ava square to the pickleball courts at the city park.
The costume contest will begin at 5 p.m., shortly before Trail of Treats activities get underway.
For generations, the Lions Club contest has drawn children and families to the square each Halloween. Organizers said the move to the park will provide additional room for contestants, families and spectators while allowing the longstanding contest to become part of the growing Trail of Treats celebration.
The City of Ava launched Trail of Treats in 2025 as a community Halloween event centered around children and families. Following its first year, organizers are expanding the event with additional activities and more opportunities for local businesses and organizations to participate.
In addition to traditional candy booths, organizers are inviting food trucks, local crafters and bakers to participate this year.
Vendors may operate a candy booth, sell food or showcase handmade crafts and baked goods. Participation is free, though organizers ask vendors to keep their booths family friendly and candy booth participants should be prepared to distribute treats to children throughout the evening.
Among the participating organizations announced so far is the Douglas County Library, which plans to return with a booth during the event.
The city has also launched a new Trail of Treats website that serves as a central location for event details, vendor registration and updates.
Organizations and individuals interested in participating are encouraged to register in advance. Organizers list Oct. 16 as the final deadline for vendor signups. Applications may also be emailed to tot@avamissouri.org or picked up at Ava City Hall.
Additional information and registration forms are available at trailoftreats.com.
Organizers said additional activities and announcements are expected to be revealed as the event approaches.
