ELLY GRIMM
• Leader & Times
Halloween is right around the corner, and the Liberal Police Department is looking to help people celebrate and be spooked at the same time.
This year’s Arkalon Trail of Terror will be from 8 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25 at Arkalon Park. The event also serves as a fundraiser for the Liberal Police & Community Association, and the money raised goes toward the LPD & Me Christmas program.
Community Police Coordinator Dalanie Underwood said she and staff are excited to bring the event back for this year.
“Unfortunately, last year the weather wasn’t on our side and we had to cancel twice, and ultimately decided not to try for a third time. It was tough not hosting, but that decision gave us the chance to step back, plan ahead, and come into this year’s event with fresh ideas and energy,” Underwood said. “Our staff really look forward to seeing how people react on the trail – some laugh, some scream, and some run! It’s fun for us to put together something that surprises people at every turn. We’re so excited to have the event back on the calendar after missing last year.”
Underwood said there will be a lot to take in on this year’s Trail.
“Of course, the haunted trail is the big draw, but it’s not the only thing,” Underwood said. “We’ll have food from Burgers and Burritos on Wheels, 5150 Deli, Sip & Swirl LLC, and All in the Family, plus Kaptured Photo Booth Experiences for those who want to snap some spooky memories. Whether you’re there for the scares, the food, or both, there’s plenty to enjoy. If you like a good scare, this is the place to be. It’s a chance to do something different for Halloween, and the best part is every ticket goes toward making Christmas special for local kids.”
Underwood added there are many factors that keep the public and LPD staff coming back every year.
“People come back for the experience – it’s never exactly the same trail twice. We change things up from year to year, so even if you’ve been before, you’ll still find new surprises. For us, it’s rewarding to see it grow into something people mark on their calendars each fall,” Underwood said. “And honestly, it’s fun for us too. Planning the scares, setting up the trail, and then seeing it all come together, it’s a different kind of teamwork than what we normally do, but just as fulfilling. And knowing the funds help our Christmas event makes the long hours worth it. We expect a busy night with lots of people ready for some Halloween thrills. Our goal is to keep it safe, well-organized, and spooky from start to finish.”
Overall, Underwood said, this year’s Trail of Terror should be a spooktacular time for everyone who comes out.
“There aren’t strict age limits, but parents should know the trail can be pretty intense. We recommend parental discretion for younger kids – sometimes they love it, sometimes it’s a little too spooky,” Underwood said. “We’re just glad to be back this year. It’s our eighth Trail of Terror, and we’ve put in a lot of effort to make sure it’s worth the wait. Between the trail, the food, and the cause it supports, it’s going to be a night to remember.”
