GAINESVILLE, Texas — Downtown Gainesville will transform into a trick-or-treating destination this Saturday as the Gainesville Area Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Development Association host Scare on the Square, a family-friendly Halloween celebration running from 2 to 4 p.m. The event features a Costume Contest, Downtown Window Decorating Contest, live music, food trucks, and participating local merchants offering treats and shopping opportunities to children in costume. The highlight Costume Contest will take place at the Farmers Market at 3:30 p.m., with winners announced at 3:45 p.m. The competition includes five divisions: children ages 0-3, 4-7, 8-12, teens 12-18, and adult groups. Downtown businesses are encouraged to join in the festive spirit by decorating their storefront windows for the Downtown Window Decorating Contest. Participating merchants will display Scare on the Square flyers in their windows, and only businesses located in the Downtown District are eligible to enter the contest. Photos of participating window displays will be shared on the Gainesville Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook page. The event offers Cooke County families an opportunity to celebrate Halloween while supporting local downtown merchants and businesses. Whether children are seeking treats, checking out creative window displays, or competing for costume contest prizes, Scare on the Square provides a safe, community-centered Halloween experience.