Ghouls, goblins, princesses and the occasional Avenger filled the Covington Square Thursday night for Scare on the Square, presented by Covington/Newton County’s Public Safety team and Main Street Covington.

The annual event, from 5:30–7:30 p.m., drew thousands of trick-or-treaters. It included booths sponsored by public service organizations, including the Covington Fire Department, the Covington Police Department, City of Oxford Police, and local businesses and organizations such as Newton Federal Bank and GameTime sports and entertainment center.

Trick-or-treaters were treated to snow cones, candy and haunted hayrides.

Police Capt. Ken Malcolm said the event provided trick-or-treaters with a safe and enjoyable experience.

"It’s a great event for a lot of reasons," Malcolm said. "It’s a safe area for Halloween. You know the people out here and you know who is distributing the candy.

"It’s also a good opportunity for us and other public safety organizations to have a chance to interact with the citizens we serve," Malcom said. "The kids remember this event and it makes an impact. … We had a tremendous crowd tonight, and I think everyone enjoyed themselves. We want everyone to walk away with a good feeling and a good experience."

Newton Federal Vice President Brian Burgoyne said that the crowd was exceptional.

"It’s been non-stop traffic since 5:30 p.m.," he said.

Newton County resident Michael Parker said that Scare on the Square was a great event for his 4-year- old son, Jaycob. Parker’s wife, Rita, said, "It’s been awesome every year. It’s always awesome."

For information on participating in next year’s Scare on the Square, contact Malcolm at the Covington Police Department.