CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — You might have seen more and more 'Trunk-or-Treat' events popping up as we get closer to Halloween.
They're gaining in popularity, but are these types of events replacing the traditional door-to-door trick-or-treating?
Days before little ghosts and goblins are expected to take to the streets throughout the city, kids with a sweet tooth are already on a candy mission to fill their bags and buckets.
"Trick-or treat!" said one pint-sized kid dressed as Mario as Super Mario Bros.
Events like Halloween with the Hooks at Whataburger Field are serving as an alternative for parents forgoing the traditional trick-or-treating for something else.
"Definitely the trunk-or-treats, or it's driving around and looking for the lights on," said parent Dayton Mitchell who brought his 4-year-old son out to Whataburger Field.
He's not the only parent who says these types of community events are the way to go.
"We prefer this better, because we know its going to be clean and safe," said Crystal Anguiano and her son JT. "We also know its going to be a really fun experience."
The event was one of dozens of trunk-or-treat events popping up seemingly everywhere.
How popular are they? The line of costume creatures to get into Whataburger Field stretched around the corner.
Organizers said it's only growing, with an expected 3,000-5,000 people in attendance Thursday night.
"We have a record 67 vendors out there, the biggest by far, I'm kind of mind blown by that," said Maggie Freeborn with the Hooks.
Some families feel it's a safer option.
Other parents said there's nothing quite like taking their little ones door-to-door.
"Some do in small towns, but only to people they know," said Susie Alvarez.
So drivers watch out! Corpus Christi police said trick-or-treating is still alive and well in some neighborhoods.
Last year, the Del Mar neighborhood saw thousands of kids.
"Just, parents, go with their child -- just to keep an eye on them," said CCPD Sr. Ofc. Jennifer Collier. "Make sure they are not darting out into traffic. A lot of the kids wear a dark costume, make sure you are wearing something reflective, carry a flashlight."
Still, trunk-or-treats are so popular, the Corpus Christi Police Department is getting in on the fun.
The police department is hosting its own Halloween night from 5-7 p.m. at their Flour Bluff substation.
But be warned, this year the weather might be a scare for trick-or-treaters and it does fall on a school night.