Trick-or-treating has been a beloved activity for years, but as Covid-19 brings change to America, the popular Halloween activity might not happen in 2020. 

With the danger of Covid-19, parents are concerned with trick-or-treating this year. Kasey Gran, a local mother of two says, “I believe trick-or-treating should be canceled; it’s an unnecessary risk to take. Trick-or-treating could increase transmission in our community, which affects everyone, not just the trick-or-treaters.” Gran adds, “Kids do not understand six feet apart; we can’t really expect this out of young children racing to each house for candy.” 

Not everyone feels that way. “Yes, I do think it is safe to go trick-or-treating this year because people are usually well spaced and many are already wearing face coverings,” explains Ryan, a sixth-grader at Harmony Middle School.

Though Loudoun County hasn’t banned Halloween activities this year, parents are finding alternatives to traditional trick-or-treating to avoid potential dangers brought about by Covid-19.  Many private events, such as Trunk-or-Treats and parties, are still scheduled to occur with safety measures. Parent Kasey Gran also says, “Our family is going to the Truck-or-Treat at my son’s preschool. The preschool checks temperatures and has other regulations in place to help keep others safe.”

A Trunk-or-Treat is when you park cars in a circle and decorate them to fit a Halloween theme. Usually, people in the car pass out candy, but because of Covid-19, they will most likely change that. When asked if small alternative Halloween events should be allowed, Gran stated, “These activities should be allowed, because that is the choice of others to meet in small groups and do something fun for the kids. These events can be privately regulated and restrictions can be made to help prevent or lower the risk of Covid-19.”

 Many families have chosen to partake in at-home Halloween activities, such as playing games, watching scary movies, or even replicating trick-or-treating. “You could have a Halloween party, watch scary movies, or hang out with friends,” recommends Taylor, a third-grader at Round Hill Elementary. One of the most popular Halloween activities currently being suggested is partying with friends and family, rather than going door to door to get candy. Twelfth grader Ava Eckenrode says, “I am going to dress up and hang out with my friends this year.” While small parties seem to be the direction most are taking, some other suggested alternatives to trick-or-treating include: a scavenger hunt, Halloween advent calendar, or simply enjoying candy with a movie. 

Though the Health Department does not recommend door-to-door trick-or-treating, if you choose to go trick-or-treating this year wear a mask, stay six feet apart, sanitize, and stay safe.