GREEN COVE SPRINGS – The police department is expecting one of the largest crowds of trick-or-treaters and families at Saturday’s Trunk or Treat party, and like all good cops, they are prepared.

The police department at 1001 Idlewild Ave. was transformed into a playground, full of games, prizes, food, a scare tent and, of course, candy. The party will run from 6-9 p.m.

“We finished the scare tent,” said GCSPD Chief John Guzman on Tuesday. “We’ll be ready for Saturday.”

Based on last week’s crowd for Tales from the Clink across the street at the Historic Triangle, Guzman said thousands are expected. The crowd at Tales from the Clink nearly doubled the largest crowd from two years ago.

“The last time we did it, we took an informal count and I think it was a couple of years ago. There were more than 1,000 there,” Guzman said. “I expect a large crowd because of everything we’ve seen since COVID, the attendance numbers have increased for just about everything. We think there will be thousands here this year.”

Trunk or Treat is hosted by the police department with volunteer support from City staff.  There also will be decorated trunks, dance and costume contests, a canned food drive, and so much more. This is a free event for the community run by volunteers, donations and sponsorships, including the recent Rock the Dock in September at the Elks Club. That night of entertainment, food and poker raised more than $3,000 toward covering the expenses for Saturday.