Blackbelt Benefit Group (BBG), the Selma City Council, Selma Fire Department (SFD), Selma Police Department, Selma – Dallas County Public Library and downtown businesses will once again host the annual Monster March on Thursday at 3:30 p.m.

“At a time when you hear so many negative things about our community, it means so much to see all  the different community sectors pull together to make sure the tradition continues,” said BBG Executive Director Devon Gray.

The Halloween tradition kicks off with face painting and arts and crafts at the library at 3:30 p.m. Registration for the costume contest will also take place at this time.

At 3:45 p.m. SFD Mascot Sparky the Dalmatian will will lead the trick-or-treaters  down Broad Street as they fill their receptacles with candy from local businesses.

The group will then arrive at the library where the winners of the costume contest will be announced around 5 p.m.

Prizes will be given for most creative, cutest and best superhero.

Trick-or-treaters are then invited to take part in First baptist Church’s Trunk-or-Treat at 5:30 p.m.

“The Monster March has been around for over 25 years,” said Selma – Dallas County Public Library Director Becky Nichols. “Events like this are part of the community, and everything we do is about celebrating being a part of  the community.”

Downtown business owners Buddy Swift and Tonya Boddie said that the Monster March is always an exciting event.

“We love [The Monster March],” said Swift, of Swift Drug Company. “It gives kids a safe place to trick-or-treat.”

“It’s very exciting for us to see the kids looking all festive,” said Boddie, of Pringle Petals. “We look forward to it every year.”