Queen of Halloween Brings Nostalgia to Russell Road Community
The Queen of Halloween returns again this year to host the annual Russell Road Trick-or-Treat event! Jessica Simmons has loved Halloween as long as she can remember, and her love continues to grow. Her title of Queen of Halloween began about eight years ago when she was PTO President at Bolivar Elementary School, when she organized a successful Trunk or Treat for about four years. Jessica says as her son transitioned to middle school, and she was no longer the PTO president, she hoped to continue keeping the Halloween spirit alive. This led to the birth of the Old-Fashioned Russell Road Trick or Treat. This year will be her fourth year organizing the Trick or Treat event.
“I’ve had my hand in the literal county candy bucket for eight years now and am known as the Queen of Halloween and I LOVE that title,” said Jessica.
The Russel Road Trick or Treat triggers feelings of nostalgia for parents and grandparents, and introduces the warm feeling of holiday spirit for the younger generations, and that is what makes it so special.
“It reminds us of a time that was simple and fun with people who knew us in our community and cared about us on a personal level,” said Jessica.
Jessica and her family go the extra mile to create an immersive experience for all those who attend by incorporating enthralling themes, exquisite decorations, and extravagant costumes.
“I try to be a villain every year because they’re my favorites. I really commit to my costumes and so does my family,” said Jessica.
The Russell Road Trick or Treat began with just the Simmons’ house and a couple others but has grown to a total of about 20 houses, with 10 of those “houses” being on the Simmons premise, which has become a one-stop-shop for candy!
“What’s so neat about our experience is that although there are multiple houses to stop at, mine is the mega center. With friends, families, and volunteers that all set up in my driveway to hand out candy all in one place. So, when you stop at my house, it’s like 10 stops in one! I cannot thank my neighbors enough every year for their commitment to this, and for being so understanding about the traffic. Other businesses and families within the county have always reached out to offer candy donations as well,” said Jessica.
“Hardeman County is a special place. A place where everyone knows your business, but also where they’ll rush to help you out of that business if you need it,” said Jessica who believes events like these are necessary for Hardeman County to foster the sense of small-town community and belonging. “No one left behind or left out, all-inclusive events that bring a little different fun and a special kind of joy.”
The Halloween festivities are not the only thing that has grown over the years. After almost a decade of hosting Halloween, Jessica has gotten to observe the growth in the children of the community. She says she loves seeing their costume tastes change as their personalities and interests develop from year to year.
“And they remember me and the things I’ve done and all my costumes over the years because we go over the top! Or they’ll see me out in town and their parents will tell them who I am without my costume on and their faces light up,” said Jessica.
Jessica says she anticipates the event being a little bigger each year. Last year, she personally handed out over 7,000 pieces of candy. With each child getting two items, that’s about 3,500 kids that came down Russell Road on October 31!
There are several things Jessica plans to do this year to make the event even more memorable. She hopes (weather permitting and horses willing) to have her miniature ponies visible in costume. Jessica always has a few boxes of full-size candy bars, rubber ducks, and glow items. In addition, one house that participates in the Russell Road Trick or Treat gives out books instead of candy!
Jessica hopes people see how much hard work and dedication goes into pulling off this extravagant event.
“Last year, it rained right up until start time, and I still didn’t call it off, because we give kids something to look forward to and I never want to take that away if I can help it,” said Jessica.
As her son grows up and Jessica considers his college plans, she is unsure of what will become of the Halloween festivities a few years down the road, but she hopes to keep going and keep growing. Jessica has always wanted to build a Halloween tradition that stands the test of time. She hopes that the kids who attend now can one day bring their own kids.
There are a few things Jessica would like the community to know: The Russell Road Trick or Treat will begin promptly at 6 p.m. on October 31. No early treaters will receive any candy. All ages and abilities are invited to attend, just be sure to dress up! If you are not in costume, you will not receive any candy. Candy will be handed out until the crowd dwindles completely. Also, do not pull into driveways, or you will be blocked in for hours.
Creating vivid core memories full of nostalgic, classic, holiday fun is obviously what motivates Jessica to work so hard for this special night of the year. One of the best ways to show appreciation for her dedication and hard work is by simply participating! Come out and enjoy some safe, Old-Fashioned Halloween fun at the annual Russell Road Trick or Treat this Friday!
Author Hannah Thompson
As the assistant director of the Bolivar‑Hardeman County Library, Hannah has the privilege of sharing her love of stories with the Hardeman County community every day. She is excited to do the same as a member of the Hatchie Press team. When she is not working, you’ll likely find Hannah reading in the company of her sweet feline children, Galinda and Galileo.
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