East Midtown Halloween Trick-Or-Treating Goes Virtual

MIDTOWN MANHATTAN, NY — Like so many holiday celebrations, the popular East Midtown trick-or-treat was canceled this year because of the pandemic — but organizers have found a way to move the event online.

Instead of parading through the streets of Midtown, families will instead have the chance to enter a virtual costume contest by uploading a photo to social media.

Organizers from the East Midtown partnership will choose winners in three categories: Best Baby Costume, Best Kids Costume and Best Family Costume. They will receive prize packages stuffed with toys, candy and other "treats and goodies," the Partnership says.

The event, now in its sixth year, has roped in more than 100 businesses in past years to hand out candy to trick-or-treaters, including warm baked goods from Insomnia Cookies, cupcakes from Baked By Melissa and bookmarks from the 58th Street Library.

Organizers said last year that more than 13,000 families with children under 12 had participated since its inception.

To participate in the contest, families can upload a costumed photo to Instagram, Facebook or Twitter and tag the East Midtown Partnership, or use the hashtag #EastMidtownHalloween. Submissions can also be sent over email to info@eastmidtown.org.

Entries will be accepted through Nov. 1, and organizers will share a few of their favorite entries on social media. Winners will be announced on Monday.