MILLBROOK — With October around the corner, the Town of Washington’s annual candy collection drive returns to ensure a happy Halloween for the entire neighborhood.
Residents can drop off candy donations at the Town Clerk’s office during regular business hours. The donations support the community’s Halloween night, which draws between 800 and 1,000 trick or treaters, according to Recreation Director Danielle Scalewicz. Candy is distributed to Millbrook residents living in homes along the popular trick-or-treating streets in town — usually Franklin Avenue, Merritt Avenue, Front Street, and Church Street. Scalewicz delivers the sweet treats to people’s homes herself to ensure everyone gets a fair share.
The tradition has been in effect for over 15 years, and helps defray the cost of candy in one of the area’s most popular Halloween destinations.
Sweets have not been immune to inflation and rising prices — chocolate prices were up 30% in 2025 compared to the previous year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Bulk candy prices rose about 78% between 2020 and 2025.
Scalewicz said the program has shown the extent of the community’s generosity. “I have a big wagon that I keep set up in town hall, and it was overflowing last year,” she said.
In other Halloween programming, the village will host Trunk or Treating on Oct. 24 at the town park at 1 p.m. Residents are encouraged to decorate their cars starting at noon.
The park will also host a screening of “Hocus Pocus” on Oct. 16 at 7 p.m.
Tiffany Lemelin, shelter manager, brushing Marsala upon arrival.Provided
Michael DeBarba, certified dog trainer working with Marsala.Jennifer Almquist
Marsala wins a heart.Jennifer Almquist
Sadie, center, a Carolina dog, plays with her friend Negra, a terrier mix. Bella Linda, the small poodle, has since been adopted.L. Tomaino
Wesley, a young, exuberant mix, is looking for an active home.L. Tomaino
Bonnie and Clyde, an affectionate terrier pair.L. Tomaino
