We’ve reached October which means it’s time to celebrate all things spooky and sweet. Even in 2020, THIS is Halloween month. And, despite the pandemic, we can still celebrate. The state of Illinois has released their guidelines for fall celebrations and there are some notable changes this year.
Walk-through haunted houses will be prohibited in Illinois. Let’s face it, there’s A LOT of person-to-person interactions in the best haunted houses. Fortunately, haunted outdoor walks are in the clear. Face coverings must be in use for these; it may be pretty funny to see a zombie or vampire wearing their face mask… Another option are drive-through haunted houses. Check out a couple local ones taking place HERE.
Pumpkin patches can still be open this month. That’s a relief! Visitors and workers will need face masks and be required to use hand sanitizer if handling produce. Hay rides must be socially distanced, but can also take place.
Parties… Well, the state is allowing bars to be opened for indoor drinking again in Chicago starting today, October 1st. So, this will include any bars that have Halloween costume themed nights. Check out Chicago’s new bar guidelines here. Gatherings at home are still expected to be done in small groups.
Now, the big one for parents and kids: Trick-or-Treating. The state is really encouraging people to leave candy outside their home for trick-or-treaters so as to reduce contact spread of coronavirus this holiday. For trick-or-treaters, they should only travel in groups with people they live with, maintain social distancing of 6 feet apart, wear a face mask regardless of a Halloween mask (sorry, those rubber costume masks DO NOT count as face masks) and should wash their hands before candling any of the candy they intend to eat.
WHEW! Now that we got through all that, the things to focus on this holiday season are what you still CAN DO. You can still trick-or-treat, you can still visit substitutes to traditional haunted houses, you can still see friends, you can still visit pumpkin patches, you can still decorate and dress up for Halloween and watch some classic monster movies. Have fun this October and be safe!
