Thousands expected to return for Webster Parish Libraries’ most magical event of the year.
Dust off your cloaks and polish your wands—Webster Parish Libraries’ most magical event of the year is back, and it’s promising to be more enchanting than ever. Following the overwhelming success of last year’s debut, the library’s Hogwarts-themed Trunk or Treat is returning for Part II this October, complete with themed trunks, wizard-worthy treats, and an expanded magical attraction inside the library.
The festivities kick off at the Minden Branch on Thursday, October 23, 2025 from 5:30 to 7:30 PM (rain date: Monday, October 27, 2025) and continue at the Springhill Branch on Thursday, October 30,2025 from 5:00 to 7:00 PM (rain date: Friday, October 31, 2025). Both events are open to the public and entirely free to attend.
This year’s theme continues the magical journey introduced in 2024, when the libraries transformed into spellbinding versions of Hogwarts and Hogsmeade. The event drew an impressive crowd of more than 3,400 attendees across all locations, including Doyline, making it one of the largest library-hosted events. With even more features planned and community interest growing, organizers say this year’s turnout could top that number.
“This isn’t something we plan a few months in advance,” said Kim Sentell, Director of Marketing and Community Liaison for Webster Parish Libraries. “Library Director Savannah Jones began mapping out the 2025 event immediately after last year’s ended. From trunk layouts to attraction flow to transportation planning—it’s all been in the works for almost a full year.”
The event will once again feature a vibrant Trunk or Treat Lane, where local businesses and organizations decorate vehicle trunks with elaborate, themed displays and hand out candy to children and families. Attendees can expect everything from spooky castles to enchanted forests—each stop offering a new treat and a new story.
Inside the library, the magic deepens. Guests will step into “The Library Attraction House: Part II – The Adventure Continues,” an immersive, Hogwarts-inspired experience designed for all ages. Building on the narrative from last year’s event, this continuation promises even more whimsical details, magical mischief, and interactive elements.
“There’s an entire storyline that ties these events together year to year,” Sentell explained. “It’s like stepping into a living book. You’re not just collecting candy—you’re stepping into a world we’ve built from the ground up.”
The library system is currently seeking local businesses and organizations to participate as trunk hosts. Minden has 47 spots available, while Springhill will host 26 trunks. Registration closes October 7 at 5:00 PM, and a map showing trunk placement will be released on October 16 to help participants prepare.
To ensure safety and organization, the libraries are implementing stricter guidelines this year. In Minden, all trunk participants must check in between 4:15 and 4:45 PM; in Springhill, between 4:00 and 4:30 PM. No vehicles will be allowed into the trunk area after those cutoffs, as barriers will be locked in place ahead of start time. Additionally, only the assigned trunk vehicle may enter the parking lot during setup, and each trunk may have no more than six representatives to help keep the event comfortable and manageable for all.
As always, admission is free, and no registration is required for families to attend. This event is part of the library system’s ongoing mission to provide inclusive, accessible, and family-friendly programming to the community. While enjoying the festivities, guests are encouraged to sign up for a free library card and explore the many resources available at their local branches.
“In response to the popular turnout and positive feedback from last year, we’re pleased to once again offer complimentary trolley shuttle service for this community-wide event,” said Savannah Jones, Library Director. “This service is part of our ongoing effort to ensure the event is as accessible and enjoyable as possible for everyone. We also recognized the need for pedestrian barriers to help guide foot traffic and create easy-to-follow lines that improve flow throughout the event.”
The trolley will run from 5:00 to 8:00 PM, transporting guests between designated public parking areas and the library. A detailed parking and shuttle map will be available on the library’s website and social media channels as the event approaches.
Webster Parish Libraries extends heartfelt thanks to the City of Minden and the Webster Parish Police Jury for their generous support in providing access to these designated parking locations and helping make this event welcoming for all.
To ensure pedestrian safety, several streets surrounding the Minden library will be closed to traffic during the event, including portions of East and West Street, Buchanan Street, Ferguson Street, and Elm Street.
With a full year of planning behind it, expanded features, and growing community involvement, Hogwarts Trunk or Treat: Part II is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated family events of the fall. For more information, to view event maps, or to sign up your organization for a trunk, visit websterparishlibrary.org or follow Webster Parish Libraries on Facebook.
“Expect more magic, more candy, and more moments that kids—and parents—will never forget,” said Sentell. “We can’t wait to welcome everyone back to the wizarding world.”