Pumpkins, bags and pillowcases overflowed with candy and goodies last night as local children from Centre County's Big Brothers and Big Sisters program gathered in Simmons Hall to celebrate Halloween a few days early.

More than 25 children roamed through the residence hall, knocking on doors and screaming "Trick or treat!" to collect candy from residents during the annual event.

Resident assistants and the Big Brothers and Big Sisters organization coordinated the event. The children who participated in the activity ranged in age from two to 13 years.

"A lot of the kids are underprivileged children and this gives them a chance to celebrate the holiday in a safe environment," said Lateefah Cullins (senior-human development and family studies), a Simmons resident assistant who helped with the event.

Last night's celebration was designed to unify residents as well as the community, said Kelly Manion, coordinator of Residence Life in South Halls. The purpose of the annual event is to get residents involved as well as to provide a place for the children to trick or treat, Manion said.

"The door-decorating process allows the residents to get to know one another a little better and the children get better acquainted with their Big Brother or Big Sister," Manion said.

At the beginning of the night, children gathered in costumes which included devils, pumpkins, baseball players and princesses, to participate in arts and crafts activities. They also munched on different snacks but made sure to save room for the candy they were about to collect.

"I'm full, Mom, but I still have room for my candy!" said Katlyn Comly, a 6-year-old trick or treater dressed as a princess.

The children broke into groups, some sporting face paintings, to gather as much candy as their bags could hold.

"Halloween is my favorite holiday," said Courtney Rossman, a 12-year-old participant. "I love the candy."

Many Penn State students living in Simmons Hall were eager to join in on the night of fun.

"What could be more fun than seeing little kids dressed up in costumes, knocking at your door? You hardly ever see anyone on this campus under 18. It is a nice change," said Gary Alloway (junior-marketing and history), after he passed out some candy.

All residents were invited to participate and a ghost was posted on their door to depict them from non-participants.

"I just love to see the little kids in costumes," said John Hegarty (junior-biochemistry and molecular biology), a Simmons resident who distributed candy.