Jeep or Treat: Dunedin’s Halloween Extravaganza for Families in Need
DUNEDIN, Fla. — As autumn settles in and Halloween approaches, the picturesque town of Dunedin is gearing up for one of its most cherished traditions: Jeep or Treat. Set to take place on Wednesday, October 30, this vibrant event draws together a unique community of Jeep enthusiasts, uniting them all for a fun-filled evening designed to uplift families and children, even in the wake of recent natural disasters.
This year, the excitement is palpable, particularly for those Jeep owners who have recently endured the destructive forces of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Many in the Jeep community experienced significant damage to their homes, yet they remain undeterred, determined to carry on with what has become a beloved annual celebration. “When you buy a Jeep, you aren’t just buying a Jeep; you are buying a family,” says Gard Ryan, the founder of the Pinellas County Jeeps community group. “The Jeep community is huge all over the world.”
For the past seven years, Ryan and his fellow Jeep owners have been organizing Jeep or Treat, an event inspired by the need to give back to children and families in the community. “Everybody wants to do a trunk or treat, but there is no trunk in a Jeep, so what about ‘Jeep or Treat?’” Ryan explained. This inventive twist on traditional trick-or-treating brings joy to many, especially this year, when local families are in desperate need of joy and connection.
In previous years, Jeep or Treat has drawn close to 300 decorated Jeeps, each one brimming with candy and festively adorned for the holiday. This year is particularly ambitious, with the organizers expecting over 1,000 families to partake in the festivities. “In a time where everybody lost everything, they can bring their children here and load up,” Ryan noted, highlighting the event’s significance in the wake of adversity.
One of the standout features of Jeep or Treat is the creativity that Jeep owners bring to their vehicles. Participants take pride in customizing their rides to fit their Halloween spirit. Julie Foster, for instance, has transformed her Jeep into a tribute to Toothless, the iconic Night Fury from “How To Train Your Dragon.” “It’s all about the dragons!,” Foster exclaimed, showcasing her enthusiasm and dedication to the celebration.
Another passionate Jeep owner, Jay Chalaire, emphasizes the importance of engagement during the event. “I encourage trick-or-treaters to walk around the entire vehicle—you never know what you might see hanging out a window or off a spare tire,” he said. The charm of seeing kids’ faces light up as they explore the decorated Jeeps is truly what brings the community together, reminding everyone of the power of joy even in tough times. “Seeing all the people having fun, really seeing the smiles on the kids, and seeing the joy is the best part of the event,” Chalaire expressed. “That right there alone is why we all do it.”
In the spirit of giving back, Pinellas County Jeeps is also using the occasion to rally support for families beyond the festivities. They are encouraging attendees to bring non-perishable food items, which will be donated to the local nonprofit Harriet’s Pantry. It’s a heartwarming initiative that complements the event’s festive mood while supporting those in need—a perfect marriage of fun and compassion.
The Jeep or Treat festivities will kick off at 4 p.m. and continue until sunset on the scenic Dunedin Causeway. “You walk in for free, and you leave with more candy than you could ever imagine,” Chalaire said, inviting families to join in the fun. “Come enjoy yourself!”
As Dunedin prepares for this memorable evening, the bond of the Jeep community shines brightly, reminding everyone that, no matter the challenges faced, bringing the community together for laughter, joy, and generosity can create an unforgettable Halloween experience. For families in Dunedin, this event isn’t just a night of candy; it’s a symbol of resilience and unity in the face of adversity, showcasing the power of community spirit during trying times. Whether you’re a Jeep enthusiast or simply looking for a great way to celebrate Halloween with your family, Jeep or Treat promises to bring smiles and cherished memories for years to come.
