Trick-Or-Treating A Go In Manhattan; Can Be 'Accomplished Safely'

MANHATTAN, IL — The Manhattan Police Department announced Monday that the village isn't cancelling trick-or-treating as they believe the Halloween activity can be accomplished safely. Trick-or-treating hours in Manhattan will be 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Halloween (Oct. 31), according to village officials. Police pointed to several reasons for the decision, including treats already being individually wrapped and sealed, and the outdoors allowing for social distancing.

"Human beings are social animals and traditions and rituals are important for psychological health and the overall well-being of the community," the police department added.

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Police ask residents to do the following during trick-or-treating on Oct. 31:

• Residents participating in handing out candy, please put your porch light on. If you are uncomfortable with handing out candy, please leave your porch light off.
• Police ask that you consider wearing a mask (not the Halloween kind) if interacting closely with others. Do not leave bowls of candy on your porch that multiple people will touch (or one person who will take the whole thing ).
• If you are uncomfortable with your children trick-or-treating, it is always your choice as a parent not to send them.
• Police encourage everyone to practice social distancing to the extent possible, "and IT IS possible when you are walking around outdoors."
• Enjoy Halloween. Be safe. We can participate in trick-or-treating while still taking necessary precautions and respecting the concerns and decisions of others who may not be comfortable participating.

Are you going to allow your children to participating in Manhattan's trick-or-treating on Oct. 31? Let Patch know in the comment section.

Send details on fall and Halloween happenings in Manhattan, including health guidelines being put in place, to rebecca.bream@patch.com.