Triton College Hosts Trunk-or-Treat in Space Event

Triton College invites families for an early Halloween celebration with the third annual Trunk-or-Treat in Space. This event is scheduled from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on October 10. It will be held outside the Cernan Earth and Space Center located at 2000 5th Ave. in River Grove. No reservations are needed for this free, open-to-all gathering.

The event will feature around 15 decorated cars parked in the Cernan Center’s parking lot. Children can enjoy collecting candy and other giveaways. Tina Lilly, the Director of Business Services for Triton College, shared, “This event started about three years ago and is hosted and sponsored by the Alumni Association.” The creation of the event followed a survey conducted among Triton alumni to find family-friendly activities. “Trunk-or-treating was popular,” Lilly noted, “It’s a fun, simple, and safe activity, especially for children. Kids move car to car collecting treats in a controlled environment.” Alumni members happily volunteered to bring their cars and distribute treats.

The event partnered with the Cernan Center to provide a special attraction: a 15 to 20-minute Halloween-themed space show. Lilly added, “Attendees are encouraged to explore this interesting experience inside the Planetarium.” The event witnessed over 500 attendees in its initial and second years. Lilly said, “Parents and kids alike dress up in costumes, often coordinating as a family.”

Shows are scheduled at 11:45 a.m., 12:15 p.m., 1 p.m., and 1:30 p.m. Kris Kovach McCall, the Director of the Cernan Center, emphasized, “We want to give everyone a taste of our offerings with these complimentary shows.” Jordan Jubeck, a Planetarium educator, designed the presentation. “She created a show focusing on Halloween and astronomy,” McCall said, “It explores celestial concepts, like what happens when stars die, and includes some laser effects for fun.”

McCall mentioned, “People often think the Planetarium is for a specific age group, but both children and adults show interest in space and science.” The event also allows visitors to access the exhibit hall and Star Store gift shop. “All purchases at the Star Store will have a 10 percent discount during the event,” McCall added. The Trunk-or-Treat in Space will proceed regardless of weather conditions, moving indoors if necessary.