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Spooky Surprises Await: Trick-or-Treat at Hilltop Plaza!

A skeleton dances above "TRICK OR TREAT" text on a purple background, surrounded by colorful candies and lollipops, creating a festive mood.

There’s something magical about a crisp October afternoon when the whole community comes out to play. At VVS Events & Marketing, we design premium, turnkey experiences that make neighbors feel like family—and our annual Trick-or-Treat at Hilltop Plaza is one of our favorites. On Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 1:00–3:00 PM, we’re transforming the center into a safe, walkable Halloween wonderland where families can meet the merchants, make memories, and collect plenty of treats. Presented with our partners at Rappaport, this free, public event is a joyful, low-stress way to celebrate spooky season.

Highlights of the Day


  • Register at the BOO-tique and grab your tote: Start at our Guest Services BOO-tique to register and pick up your complimentary promotional tote—perfect for candy collecting. Our team will add a handful of goodies to kick off your route, and you’ll get a map to the fun.


  • Premium Candy Crawl with up to 40 merchants: Little ghouls and superheroes can make their way through Hilltop Plaza, stopping at participating merchants for treats. Look for the Trick-or-Treat signs at merchant doors—our wayfinding makes it easy to roam, smile, and snack. Merchants begin with starter candy, and many add extra to keep the sweetness going while supplies last.


  • Jibbitz BOO-tique: a charm-filled keepsake: After trick-or-treating, head back to “shop” our Jibbitz BOO-tique. Each child can pick out one silicone bracelet and choose four Croc charms to personalize it. Kids love scanning the trays of charms and creating their own look—it’s the cutest little “I did it!” moment of the day.


  • Live DJ + Monster Mash Freeze Dance: DJ Lenny with DLB Charters & Entertainment will keep the beats bouncing with upbeat, family-friendly music. Don’t miss the Monster Mash Freeze Dance—winners score candy necklace prizes and major bragging rights.


  • Fall photo op for the whole family: Snap those seasonal selfies at our autumnal backdrop, complete with a wooden backdrop, haybales, pumpkins, corn stalks, and friendly scarecrows. It’s the picture-perfect setting for your 2025 Halloween album.


  • Balloon artistry that keeps the line moving: Our balloon artist crafts whimsical creations—and if the line gets long, we’ll switch to simpler designs so every kid gets a moment of delight without a long wait.


  • Cute & spooky décor from curb to tent: From tabletop pumpkins to zip-tied scarecrows greeting you at our tents, we’ve dressed the center in festive flair so the entire experience feels playful, safe, and special.

Why It Matters


This event is about more than candy—it’s about connection. Last year, a mom shared that her shy kindergartener found the courage to say “Trick or treat!” to three shop owners in a row, and each smile made the next one easier. That’s the kind of small, meaningful moment that makes community events feel big.


Hilltop Plaza’s Trick-or-Treat also helps families discover what’s right in their backyard. In a single stroll, you’ll meet the faces behind the counters, learn about services you didn’t know were here, and support the merchants who support local life. Whether you’re searching for Northern Virginia fall events or an Alexandria family festival, Hilltop Plaza is a short, stress-free drive that delivers the same seasonal magic—without the crowds.


As an annual tradition, this public, free event continues to grow because it makes Halloween easy: no busy streets, clear wayfinding, upbeat music, and a center designed for family-friendly fun. It’s the kind of afternoon that gives kids something to look forward to—and parents a reason to exhale.


How to Attend

  • Date and time: Saturday, October 18, 2025, 1:00–3:00 PM

  • Location: Hilltop Plaza, 6828 Race Track Rd Suite B, Bowie, MD 20715

  • Cost: Free and open to the public

  • RSVP: Let us know you’re coming at https://www.facebook.com/share/17Nek2tQYC/ (RSVP encouraged, not required)

  • What to expect: Registration at the BOO-tique, a merchant Candy Crawl, Jibbitz BOO-tique bracelets and charms (one bracelet + four charms per child), a live DJ and dance games, balloon artistry, and a fall photo backdrop. Treats and giveaways available while supplies last.

  • Tips for a smooth visit:

    • Start at registration to grab your tote and map.

    • Look for Trick-or-Treat signage at participating merchant doors.

    • Snap photos early to beat the crowd at the fall photo setup.

    • Please be mindful of tenant doorways and lines—our staff will help keep things moving.


Join us for an afternoon that’s light on logistics and heavy on happy. Bring your costumes, your camera, and your sweet tooth—and come meet the merchants who make Hilltop Plaza feel like home. RSVP today and we’ll save you a spot on the sweetest sidewalk in Bowie.


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