Palatine High's Trick-or-Treat fest returns with themed rooms, candy

Palatine High School's annual Trick-or-Treat with Pirate Pete Festival is back for 2022.

After 2020's COVID cancellation and a rainout from last year's modified outdoor event, the festival returns from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 27, at Palatine High School, 1111 N. Rohlwing Road. This celebration is open to children ages 10 and younger, who must be accompanied by an adult.

The festival is free to all attendees; costumes are encouraged. This event will be indoors with different decorations and themed rooms sponsored by Palatine High School clubs, organizations, programs and athletic teams.

Themed rooms will be labeled "scary" and "not scary" to let families know if rooms are appropriate for their children. Different rooms will provide a variety of games, activities and displays. The cafeteria will host a Pirate Ship bounce house. Mr. and Mrs. Pirate will also be at the door to greet the trick-or-treaters as they enter.

This event is a favorite in the Palatine community, including Palatine High School staff members.

Wellness teacher Jennifer Collins reminisced about past events saying, "Our kids have grown up trick-or-treating in the awesome club and sport sponsored rooms."

Beatriz Perez-Toche, a teacher in the English Learners department, spoke on the value of connecting her family to the Palatine community. "I loved being able to show my nephew where I work," she said.

Even though it has been a few years, Perez-Toche and her nephew are eager to experience the festival once again.

"He still remembers it and is excited to return."

The Trick-or-Treat festival is also a treasured way Pirate students can give back to their community.

"It allows our students to plan and execute a wonderful event for our community. It will be nice to bring back some normal traditions this year," Spanish teacher Stephanie Eide said.

Palatine High School thanks the staff and students who volunteer their time to host this celebration, as well as staff members who donate candy.

This festival would also not be possible without the sponsorship of various community organizations and businesses and the Palatine High School Pirate Boosters.

For information, call (847) 755-1600.