Highland Park Trick-Or-Treat Hours Remain Unchanged Despite Snow

HIGHLAND PARK, IL — Highland Park is not adjusting its trick-or-treat hours on Halloween due to a 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."

More: Vernon Hills Postpones Trick or Treating Due to Winter Weather

"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," Winnetka Police Chief Marc Hornstein said in a statement. "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."

More: Winnetka Postpones Halloween Trick-Or-Treating Due To Weather

In Highland Park, official trick-or-treat hours will remain unchanged, according to village staff. Neighborhood tick-or-treating runs from 3:30 to 7 p.m., despite ongoing snow removal operations as the system's heaviest snow works its way through the Chicago area.

"Due to the unusual October snowfall, please be mindful of slippery conditions, wear extra layers, and know when to head indoors," village staff advised.

Indoor trick-or-treating is taking place at local shopping centers such as Northbrook Court and Hawthorn Mall. Homes welcoming children have been asked to leave on their porch or exterior lights, and drivers were reminded to watch out for costumed children.

After the holiday, extra candy can be donated to the Great Lakes USO at the North Suburban YMCA at 2705 Techny Road anytime during regular hours starting Friday until Nov. 8.

Old and damaged costumes can be recycled at the Highland Park Recycling Center, 1180 Half Day Road, and the Downtown Metra Station.

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