The Manatee County Sheriff's Office will welcome families to its Bradenton operations center Thursday, Oct. 22, for its annual Spooktactical Night, a free Halloween celebration featuring trunk-or-treating, law enforcement demonstrations and activities for children.

The event runs from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the MCSO Operations Center, 600 301 Blvd. W. in Bradenton. Families from Lakewood Ranch and throughout Manatee County are invited.

Children are encouraged to wear costumes and collect candy from deputies and community partners stationed throughout the event. The parking lot will feature Halloween- and fall-themed vehicle displays from sheriff's office units and participating agencies.

The sheriff's office described the event as a "safe, family-fun evening" in a Facebook announcement.


Law enforcement demonstrations and family activities

The sheriff's office plans to feature demonstrations, equipment displays and opportunities for children to interact with deputies and participating community organizations.

Although a detailed demonstration schedule has not been released, K-9 activities are among the planned attractions. Last year's celebration featured demonstrations by the K-9 Unit, SWAT Team, Mounted Patrol and Special Response Team, along with face painting and interactive children's activities.

Sheriff Rick Wells, who delivered welcoming remarks at last year's event, is hosting this year's celebration.

Manatee County Search and Rescue is among the participating community partners, according to an event listing on Fun 4 Manasota Kids.

The organization plans to bring team members, emergency response equipment, vehicles and K-9s. Visitors will have opportunities to learn how the team responds to emergencies.

Free hot dogs, chips and water will be available while supplies last. Food trucks will offer additional food for purchase.

Parking and other Halloween events

Free parking will be available at the former DeSoto Square Mall across the street from the Operations Center, according to Discover Bradenton. Accessible parking will be available on-site for vehicles displaying the required permits.

Families looking for additional Halloween activities can attend BooFest on Lakewood Ranch Main Street the following week.

Upcoming Halloween events

  • Thursday, Oct. 22: Manatee Sheriff's Spooktactical Night, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., MCSO Operations Center, 600 301 Blvd. W., Bradenton. Free admission.
  • Friday, Oct. 30: BooFest on Main Street, 6 to 9 p.m., Lakewood Ranch Main Street.