Halloween in the Village, a tradition for the city of Arroyo Grande, almost didn't happen this year.
The city nearly canceled the event because there was no sponsor to pay for the necessary security measures. Instead, some village business owners stepped up as sponsors to make sure Halloween did not disappoint.
Branch Street is blocked off from Traffic Way to Mason St. so Arroyo Grande businesses can pass out candy to lines of people.
"It's much more than Halloween, it's for the community and it makes everyone happy," said Henry Gonzalez, owner of Arroyo Grande Meat Company.
However, streets and trick-or-treat bags would have been empty if it weren't for some community members like Hello Village owner Krista Bandy.
"I texted a bunch of friends and said we have to do something," said Bandy.
Bandy rallied others to help get a permit, insurance and candy donations when she heard the event was in jeopardy.
Police helped block off streets and keep people safe until candy comas and bed times hit.
"There are quite a few neighborhoods that host Halloween events with a lot of pedestrians so we like to focus our safety efforts there," said Commander Michael Martinez of the Arroyo Grande Police Department.
Police also had a number of foot patrols and volunteers ready to go if something were to happen.
This family-friendly event is a must for many and it's a tradition that isn't going anywhere.
"Oh we are already planning for next year," said Bandy.
