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October 11.2025
3 Minutes Read

Donate Your Halloween Candy to Troop Program and Support Kansas City

Assorted candies in pumpkins, highlighting a candy donation concept.

Support Our Troops While Halloweening!

As Halloween approaches, excitement fills the air with kids eagerly preparing their costumes and mapping out optimal trick-or-treat routes. However, as the festivities wind down, many families find themselves wondering what to do with the mountain of sweets amassed after a night of sugary indulgence. Instead of letting it gather dust in the pantry, why not donate your excess Halloween candy to support our troops? This heartwarming initiative not only helps military members feel appreciated but also strengthens community bonds here in Kansas City.

Why Donate Your Candy?

Lending a hand to our service members, especially during the holidays, is a fulfilling way to show gratitude for their sacrifices. Programs like Troopathon’s Halloween Candy Buyback and Soldiers' Angels’ Treats for Troops encourage individuals and families to collect candy and send it to service members stationed overseas. Last year alone, over 30,000 pounds of candy were collected, and with our collective efforts, this year can be even bigger!

How to Join the Candy Donation Effort

Participating in the candy donation drive is simple and rewarding: collect your excess Halloween candy and follow these steps to send it off:

  • Collection Period: November 1st – 7th is the suggested timeline for candy collection, but feel free to gather candy before the end of the year.
  • Shipping: Send your candy to the Operation Center at TROOPATHON Operation Center: 3105 Fite Circle Suite 108 Sacramento, CA 95827 or the TROOPATHON Warehouse for larger shipments at 850 Gray Avenue Yuba City, CA 95991.
  • Encourage Kindness: Ask your kids to write letters to military personnel, sharing a piece of their Halloween excitement! Engage friends and family to join in — community involvement can amplify the impact.

Community Participation Makes a Difference

This initiative isn’t just a chance to declutter; it fosters community spirit. Local businesses can participate as candy collection sites, turning a simple donation into a vibrant movement of support for our troops. Whether it’s schools, gyms, or dental offices, becoming a collection point not only showcases community involvement but also showcases local businesses' commitment to supporting our military.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Candy Donation

Here are some tips for Kansas City residents looking to maximize their contributions to our troops:

  • Engage Your Network: Connect with friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers to rally support for this cause. The more participants, the greater the impact!
  • Broaden the Base: Consider sourcing additional items to send, like hygiene products or handwritten notes.
  • Promote Locally: Use social media to raise awareness of your candy collection efforts, employing hashtags like #HalloweenCandyBuyBack to share your participation.

What Happens to Your Candy?

Once collected, the candy will be packaged into care packages and sent overseas. These packages not only provide a taste of home for the troops but also serve as reminders that their work is appreciated back home. In a world where appreciation is often overlooked, your candy donation can bring smiles and comfort to our brave defenders during the holidays.

Conclusion: A Sweet Tribute to Service

Preparing for Halloween should be a time of joy, and what better way to extend that joy than by supporting our troops? By donating your excess candy or participating in community efforts, you are actively contributing to a meaningful cause that honors those who serve. Let's work together, Kansas City, to make this year’s Halloween Candy donation campaign the most successful yet!
If you have a story to share about your participation or would like to know more about local efforts, feel free to reach out at team@kansascitythrive.com. Together, we can ensure our troops feel the love this Halloween!

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10.10.2025

Join the Excitement at Lenexa’s Free Family Night Costume Contest!

Update Celebrate Halloween with the Family at Lenexa Mark your calendars for a ghoulishly delightful evening! Lenexa’s Free Family Night Costume Contest is set to cast a spell on Wednesday, October 29th, from 5 PM to 7 PM at the Lenexa Public Market. Residents and visitors alike are invited to wear their most creative costumes and join in the festivities. Why Attend the Costume Contest? This event isn't just about showing off your Halloween costume; it’s about coming together as a community. Families can enjoy sweet treats and a plethora of Halloween-themed activities that ensure there’s something for everyone. Imagine a cozy atmosphere filled with laughter, friendly competition, and community spirit. The event supports local businesses while providing a safe, inviting environment for families to enjoy an autumn evening. What to Expect on Family Night The Family Night experience at the Lenexa Public Market is designed to engage children and their families in various fun-filled activities. Aside from the costume contest, there will be exciting games for all ages, including coloring pages and board games, alongside fun outdoor yard games like cornhole and sidewalk chalk. Plus, check out the talented balloon artist who will be on-site creating delightful shapes and characters for little ones to enjoy! Local Businesses Join the Fun Support local Kansas City businesses while enjoying great food! During Family Night, select merchants will have kid-friendly dinner specials, making it easy to grab a bite before or after the costume contest. For instance, Cardboard Corner Cafe is offering combo deals on kids' meals, while Sohaila’s Kitchen will be serving up a delicious Butter Chicken entrée with a complimentary mango lassi drink. Topp’d Pizza + Salads will even throw in a free kid’s pizza with the purchase of a small pizza – what’s not to love? Connecting Communities Through Events The Free Lenexa Family Night Costume Contest is not just a festive event, but a catalyst for fostering community connection. Events like these provide an opportunity for local residents and businesses to engage and strengthen their ties, promoting a vibrant community spirit. They remind us of the importance of shopping local in Kansas City, as participating in such events not only supports local artisans but also helps nurture a sense of belonging among residents. Final Thoughts and Community Spirit Whether you’re a parent looking for family-friendly activities or a community member wanting to support local retailers, the Free Lenexa Family Night Costume Contest promises an evening filled with joy and festivity. So don your best costume, gather your family, and come join your neighbors for a memorable night out! If you have a story to share or want to contact us for more details, drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com. Let’s keep this community vibrant together!

10.10.2025

Experience the 77th Annual Independence Halloween Parade: A KC Tradition

Update The Unyielding Charm of Independence's Halloween Parade The spooky season is upon us, and this year, Kansas City locals are eagerly anticipating the 77th Annual Independence Halloween Parade—an event that has become a beloved tradition in the area. Scheduled for Saturday, October 25, 2024, the parade starts promptly at 10 a.m. on the Historic Independence Square. Thrills and Spills: What to Expect This Year Organized by the Independence Chamber of Commerce, this parade won’t disappoint! Spectators can look forward to an impressive lineup featuring school marching bands, community organizations, dance studios, and a host of other delightful attractions. Not to mention the inclusion of fire trucks, tractors, classic cars, and fanciful costumes that showcase the creative spirit of the community! A Route Steeped in History The parade will kick off on Walnut Avenue near Pleasant Street, winding its way through the heart of Independence. Parade-goers will enjoy the procession’s scenic route as it travels east on Walnut, turns north on Main Street, and navigates back west on Lexington Avenue. This culminates in a celebratory finish at McCoy Park. The vibrant atmosphere of the Historic Independence Square only adds to the charm of this community event. Family-Friendly Festivities While candy won’t be tossed from floats, attendees can indulge in a delightful array of activities and sights, ensuring there's something for everyone in the family. This friendly boundary aims to foster a spirit of community rather than excess, placing a greater emphasis on appreciation and enjoyment. Engaging the Community: A Yearly Ritual The Independence Halloween Parade isn’t merely an event; it’s a yearly ritual that brings families and friends together to celebrate local culture, creativity, and camaraderie. With thousands turning out each year, it’s a testament to the community's commitment to supporting local festivities. Events like these are crucial for nurturing local connections, promoting Kansas City small businesses, and helping independent retailers flourish. Engage and Unite: How You Can Get Involved This Halloween, why not channel the festival spirit by participating in other local events? From pumpkin patches to haunted houses and everything in-between, Kansas City offers an abundance of family-friendly activities throughout the fall season. Plus, consider supporting your favorite local shops and businesses during this festive time. Remember to check out Kansas City’s farmers markets and boutiques, like where to shop local in KC, to find unique handmade gifts and seasonal treats! Make It a Local Experience Let’s face it—the charm of fall in Kansas City is intrinsically linked to community traditions like the Independence Halloween Parade. This event exemplifies what it means to support and uplift our neighborhoods. So, gather your family, put on your best costumes, and join the celebration in the historic heart of Independence! If you have a story to share about your experiences at the parade or want to learn more about local happenings, feel free to drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com.

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Experience Spooky Fun with Glow-in-the-Dark Cups at Raising Cane’s

Update Celebrate Halloween with Glow-in-the-Dark Fun! As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, Halloween enthusiasts in Kansas City have an exciting new reason to celebrate the spooky season. Raising Cane’s, the beloved fast-food chain known for its delicious chicken fingers, is launching its first-ever glow-in-the-dark Halloween cup! Taking place from October 15 to 31, 2025, these limited-edition cups will be available for just $1.39 with the purchase of any combo meal or a large drink. Each cup is adorned with playful Halloween imagery featuring bats and ghosts, along with Cane III—Raising Cane’s iconic yellow Lab—decked out in festive flair. Not Just a Cup: A Spooktacular Experience Awaits But that's not all! Alongside this collectible cup, Raising Cane’s is unveiling a haunted virtual reality (VR) experience that invites diners into an eerie version of the restaurant filled with playful ghosts and games. Customers can simply scan a QR code on their cup or in-restaurant signage to get immersed in this unique experience. By participating in the Capture the Bat game, players stand a chance to win exciting seasonal treats such as free fries, toast, and even discounts on merchandise! Early bird access to this frighteningly fun adventure begins on October 6 for Caniac Club members, with general access available on the official launch date. Why Support Local This Halloween? While indulging in festive treats, it’s essential to remember the value of supporting local Kansas City businesses. Raising Cane’s, with its extensive presence across the nation, also embodies the spirit of community engagement. As a locally connected brand, it reflects the values of Kansas City residents who consistently promote shop local Kansas City initiatives. By participating in these Halloween festivities, patrons can contribute to the local economy, ensuring that such beloved establishments thrive. Local Festivities and Community Engagement This Halloween, residents are not just celebrating with candy and costumes, but they’re also coming together over delicious meals and community-driven events. Beyond Raising Cane’s, local shops throughout Kansas City are hosting their own themed events, sales, and promotions. Exploring local shops in Kansas City during this festive season allows residents to discover unique handmade products, decorations, and treats that embody the city’s character and charm. The Importance of Local Experiences A challenging year for many small businesses has made it clear that every dollar spent locally has a significant impact. With the rise of online shopping, there’s never been a more crucial time to actively seek out and support small shops and local brands. When you buy that Halloween cup from Raising Cane’s, you’re not just getting a seasonal souvenir; you’re also participating in a broader movement that prioritizes local engagement. Every meal shared or item purchased helps strengthen the fabric of our community. Join the Fun and Spread the Spirit! As autumn settles in, make it a point to savor the delights of the season while supporting those who make Kansas City such a vibrant place to live. Whether it's through enjoying a spooky virtual experience or sharing a meal at Raising Cane’s, you contribute to a thriving local economy. After all, every effort to support Kansas City small businesses and participate in local events adds to the collective joy of the community. Get Involved! Share Your Story If you’re gearing up for Halloween and want to share your favorite local stories or events taking place in Kansas City, we’d love to hear from you! Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com and be a part of our growing community focused on celebrating the best of KC. Let’s make this Halloween memorable, together!

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