The State of Illinois and Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) released guidance on celebrating Halloween while adhering to social guidelines that prevent the spread of COVID-19. The City of Galesburg is setting the same hours for Trick or Treating that are traditionally observed, but would encourage citizens to review and follow the guidelines if they choose to participate. Trick or Treat hours in Galesburg are Saturday, October 31, 2020 from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
As always, participation in Trick or Treating remains an individual choice. Those who would like to participate should turn on their outside lights, and trick-or-treaters should remember to only visit homes that have turned on lights to indicate they would like to participate. The full guidance on Halloween provided by IDPH can be found on the City’s website and highlights of the suggested modifications are included below.
- As an alternative to door-to-door trick-or-treating, anyone who would like to distribute treats should leave individually wrapped candy or treats on a table, on their front walkways, sidewalks, or any outdoor space that allows for at least 6 feet of social distance from the door.
- All individuals participating in trick-or-treating, including those passing out candy, should maintain social distance of least 6 feet and wear proper face coverings.
- Only household members should trick-or-treat together, and they should maintain 6-feet social distance from other trick-or-treaters at all times.
- Alcohol-based hand sanitizer should be carried and used frequently.
- Candy collected during trick-or-treating should not be consumed until after handwashing.
- Outdoor areas are preferred for trick-or-treating. Enclosed indoor areas, like apartment buildings, present greater risk of transmission.
- Trunk or treat events are considered a higher risk activity and are discouraged. An alternative activity involves trick-or-treating in a large parking lot or other outdoor setting with adherence to social distancing. Tables are pre-set up with participants allowed to parade with a parent/guardian while maintaining at least 6-feet social distancing and wearing proper face coverings at all times. A limited number of people should staff the event, keeping tables replenished and monitoring social distancing.
- Halloween haunted houses are currently not allowed in Restore Illinois Phase 4 Guidelines. Instead consider open-air, one-way haunted forests or haunted walks where social distancing of 6 feet or greater and appropriate masking is enforced.
***Report Courtesy of the City of Galesburg***
