Hundreds Attend the North Suburban YMCA’s Annual ‘Trunk or Treat’ Event

Northbrook, IL – October 2025 – On October 19, hundreds of families gathered at the North Suburban YMCA for its annual “Trunk or Treat” celebration in Northbrook. Now in its fourth year, the event transformed the Y’s parking lot into a festive hub filled with over 25 elaborately decorated cars, local vendors, and costumed participants handing out candy and hosting games for guests of all ages.

The afternoon also featured a youth costume contest and a Most Creative Vehicle Contest for the “Trunk or Treat” participants. Community families, Y members, nonprofit organizations such as the Rotary Club of Northbrook and Family Services of Cicero, and local businesses all took part in the free event.

Six participants took home medals for standout costumes, including a Pennywise and Little Georgie family duo from Morton Grove, a homemade Rubik’s Cube, little ones dressed as Winnie the Pooh and a Panda, a mother-daughter pair as Spider-Gwen and Red from Descendants. An honorable mention went to a creative Winifred Sanderson costume from Hocus Pocus complete with the book of spells.

“Hosting free family events is just one of the many ways our Y gives back to the community,” said Kathy Fielding, NSYMCA CEO. “Even with the windy and early rainy weather, we had an amazing turnout. Our Trunk or Treat has truly become a community favorite!” continued Fielding. “The Y is a place for everyone, and I couldn’t be prouder of the joy and connection this event brought to families across generations.”

The Most Creative Vehicle Contest, first place went to a Y sponsor, Shake Pet Training and Behavior Modification from Des Plaines for their “Blue Dog Car,” complete with stuffed animals and a giant red tongue extending from the trunk. Other winners included The Klitz Family with a Little Shop of Horrors theme and Jodi Joffe from the Rotary Club of Northbrook with her giant monster trunk. Honorable mentions went to sponsor Chicago Mind Solutions for their Bluey-themed car complete with fun inspirational messaging.

Events like the NSYMCA’s Trunk or Treat are made possible through generous community partnerships and sponsorships. This year’s Event Sponsors included Allstate, Illinois Bone and Joint Institute, Waterway Carwash, and Wintrust Community Banks. Vendor Sponsors included Bach to Rock, 9Round Kickboxing Fitness, Celebree School of Northbrook, Chicago Mind Solutions, Elements Massage, EverSmile Orthodontics, Glenbrook Oral & Maxillofacial, The Home Improvement Network, Huntington Bank, Nicor Gas Energy Efficiency Program, Rover’s Place, Russian School of Math, and Shake Pet Training and Behavior Modification.

The North Suburban’s next events include their Annual Holiday Giveback on December 6th and their 2nd Annual KidPalooza Event on February 2, 2026. For more information about sponsoring or participating in these community events, contact Kim Nyren, Director of Community Investment and Events, at knyren@nsymca.org, or visit nsymca.org.

The North Suburban YMCA ensures that everyone—regardless of age, income, or background—has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. The Y never turns anyone away due to inability to pay. Proceeds from sponsors and vendors help support free community events like Trunk or Treat and provide financial assistance for families in need.

About the North Suburban YMCA

YMCA The North Suburban YMCA services Northbrook and 14 surrounding communities with programs and tools that help its residents become healthier, more connected, and confident, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. The NSYMCA focuses on Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility and is a charitable organization, inclusive and welcoming to all in our community. Learn more at NSYMCA.org.