Evanston Trick-Or-Treating Hours Remain Unchanged Despite Weather

EVANSTON, IL — Evanston city officials have not adjusted trick-or-treat hours on Halloween despite Thursday's winter storm. Two other northern suburbs, Vernon Hills and Winnetka, announced the postponement of recommended trick-or-treating in town until Saturday due to freezing temperatures and wintry weather.

"This decision was not made lightly, because we understand some residents may be disappointed or inconvenienced," Vernon Hills Police Chief Patrick Kreis said in a release Wednesday. "With an increased amount of children out in neighborhoods trick-or-treating during the evening rush hour, a mix of wintry weather could unnecessarily put those looking to enjoy the holiday in harm'sway. The safety of everyone involved is our highest priority."

Winnetka Police Chief Marc Hornstein echoed Kreis' remarks.

"Our primary concern is the safety of our young trick or treaters. Inclement weather, combined with young children crossing the street where visibility is reduced, increases the risk of pedestrian accidents," Hornstein told Patch in a statement Wednesday. "While I can appreciate the tradition of trick or treating specifically on October 31st, I am more concerned about our children going out in unsafe conditions when we have a reasonable alternative and the ability to reduce the possibility of an accident."

Related:
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In Evanston, official trick-or-treat hours will remain unchanged, according to city staff. Neighborhood tick-or-treating runs from 4 to 7 p.m. despite ongoing snow removal operations while the weather system's heaviest snow works its way through the Chicago area. Homes welcoming children have been asked to leave on their porch or exterior lights, and drivers were reminded to watch out for costumed children.

Volunteers aged 16 and up are still needed for Saturday's sixth annual Zombie Scramble event. Contact Michelle Tompkins at 847-448-8681 or by email to sign up for the event, which takes place on a two-mile course along the North Shore Channel.

Up to five inches of snow is in the forecast for the Chicago area.