Caldwell Says No Trick-Or-Treat On Bloomfield Ave: Halloween 2020

CALDWELL, NJ — Halloween will look different this year in Caldwell due to the coronavirus pandemic. And that includes no trick-or-treating on Bloomfield Avenue, borough officials recently announced.

During the council meeting on Oct. 6, Mayor John Kelley said that because of historically large crowds, the annual trick-or-treating on Bloomfield Avenue will be canceled this year.

Kelley said that there were concerns among local business owners in the area. He said signs will be placed on the busy street to notify residents.

Borough officials offered an update on Tuesday:

“Halloween will look different this year. Following board of health recommendations as well as concerns expressed by our business community, there will be no trick or treating on the Avenue. With proper planning our little ones won’t miss out on the fun and can still trick-or-treat in their neighborhoods. We will be posting Halloween safety guidelines on our website and Facebook page very soon.”

Officials in the West Essex area, including the Caldwells, have warned residents about a recent outbreak of COVID-19 in the region.

• See related article: 2 North Caldwell Schools To Close Amid Local COVID-19 Outbreak
• See related article: COVID-19 Outbreak In West Essex Area, Officials Warn (UPDATED)

Gov. Phil Murphy recently issued updated Halloween rules and guidance for New Jersey residents as they get ready for the holiday. READ MORE: NJ Issues Updated Halloween Rules, Guidance Amid Coronavirus

"Wear a mask that covers the nose and mouth," Murphy said. "A Jabba the Hutt mask is not a substitute."

Some recommendations include:

• In place of placing treats in bags, the candy should be arranged way so that they can be accessed but can't be touched "multiple times."
• Those distributing candy should have treats individually packaged so trick-or-treaters can "grab and go" with no shared bowl.
• Trick-or-treaters and those distributing candy need to wear masks.
• Groups should be limited to household members.
• Groups should stay local.
• Trick-or-treaters should limit the number of homes on their route.
• Social distancing is required for groups who are not all from the same household
• Handing out candy is not recommended.
• Those distributing candy should wash your hands repeatedly.
• Commercially packaged and non-perishable treats are recommended.
• Outdoor trunk-or-treat events can be held, but the number of cars should be limited for social distancing. Lines should be single-file and socially distanced.

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