Tampa Halloween: Jokes, burn survivors, and 40-year decorations

South Tampa residents turned out for Halloween celebrations on Saturday, the first time the holiday has fallen on a weekend since 2020. The event featured local traditions ranging from candy contests to a fundraiser for children recovering from burns.

On West Tacon Street, Elizabeth Hudson modified the standard trick-or-treat routine. She asked children to tell a joke or perform a talent to earn a larger candy bar. Some kids prepared jokes, while others played hopscotch with Hudson. Those who impressed her could select a prize from her wall. Hudson stated she continues the practice because the neighborhood enjoys it and for her grandchildren.

On West Santiago Street, the Freese family hosted a fundraiser for burn survivor camps. Jacob Freese and his wife were burned in a 2016 grill accident. Since then, they have raised money for camps that help children with burn injuries connect with peers. Last year, the family raised more than $5,200 to send two children to Camp HopeTáke. This year, they established a nonprofit called Bubba's Buddies. Freese said the camps allow young survivors to build relationships with others who have faced similar experiences.

Steve Odell has collected Halloween decorations for 40 years on West Rogers Avenue. His display includes inflatable figures, headstones, and a handmade fire pit. Odell said he enjoys watching children and parents view the display. He noted that the collection grows annually and finding space for all the items is becoming more difficult.

Odell plans to leave his decorations up through Sunday night. He said he plans to expand the scale of the display for Christmas.