Poppleton Street outside UMB’s Community Engagement Center came alive with music, costumes, and candy during the fourth annual Trick or Treat with UMB.
Laughter, music, and the rustle of costumes filled the air as more than 300 neighbors, children, and families gathered outside the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) Community Engagement Center (CEC) on Oct. 25, for the fourth annual Trick or Treat with UMB.
Hosted by the University’s Office of Community and Civic Engagement (OCCE), the event brought together UMB students, staff, and community partners for an evening of creativity, connection, and plenty of candy.
During the event, families made their way through 30 colorfully decorated stations hosted by volunteers representing UMB’s schools, departments, and partner organizations. There were games, experiments, and face painting, along with prizes and treats for every child. A raven-costumed stilt walker, DJ, and balloon twister kept the energy high and the Halloween spirit alive.
For UMB student Mary Mae Robinson, volunteering at the event was an opportunity to step outside the classroom. “What brought me here today was the chance to see all the kids in their costumes and reconnect with the community. As a student, you’re often busy studying and focused on classes, so it feels grounding to volunteer with children and the community,” she said.
Trick or Treat with UMB also drew new participants, including a team from the University of Maryland School of Graduate Studies’ Physician Assistant Program Class of 2027, which included staff member Mystee Jennings. “It was a great event for both the community and the University,” Jennings said, while another member of the group shared that they had such a great time they plan to make it an annual tradition.
Community member Lauren Blackwell attended with her grandchildren and said she was impressed by the range of activities. “There were so many tables and lots for kids to see and enjoy. I really liked that they gave out books as well as candy,” she said, adding that she loved seeing every child walk away with something. “There was plenty for everyone, with kids happily grabbing handfuls.”
Trick or Treat with UMB remains one of OCCE’s most anticipated family events, reflecting the University’s connection to West Baltimore through this and other vibrant programs at the CEC.