Although people anxiously await Halloween this year, the traditional festivities may have to wait until next autumn. The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) categorized many popular Halloween activities as health hazards and advised that everyone avoid them. However, various socially-distant fall festivities can occupy young children, teenagers, and even adults for this fall season.

High-Risk Activities to Avoid

The CDC strongly suggests refraining from attending events with excessive human contact and other habits that could easily spread the coronavirus. Inevitably, this includes trick-or-treating; flooding the streets with numerous kids and allowing them to come in contact with people offering treats would cause an extreme rise in cases, which would mostly consist of children. The recommendation also applies to trunk-or-treat (people giving out candy from their car trunks in large parking lots). Although Halloween parties are common, the CDC emphasized that no one should attend any indoor gatherings with a large number of people. Seasonal events, such as hayrides with people outside of your household and indoor haunted houses, increase the spread of COVID-19 through close contact and the spit from screaming (airborne).

Low to Moderate Risk Alternate Activities

The classic excitement on October 31st won’t feel the same this year, but other fun activities can distract from the expectations of a traditional Halloween night. Apple picking and visiting pumpkin patches while wearing masks is a great pastime for any fall day. A few other options include an outdoor movie night with a few close friends or carving pumpkins outside (while remaining socially distant). A Halloween-themed scavenger hunt in the backyard or even inside the house provides younger kids with a sense of adventure when missing out on their favorite holiday. An outdoor or virtual costume contest can also entertain Halloween enthusiasts of all ages. If holding an outdoor costume contest, require all of the guests to wear proper face masks; costume masks are not admissible, for they do not prevent the spread of germs.

Factors to Consider When Planning a Private Party

If inviting some friends over, practice safe behaviors to prevent the spread of corona. Limit the number of guests and urge everyone to wear a mask. If anyone recently traveled outside of the country or came in contact with someone who contracted the virus, instruct them to stay at home to prevent spreading it to others. Ideally, all gatherings should happen outside to decrease the risk of transmitting the virus; however, if other complications force the host to hold the party indoors, keep the house well-ventilated with windows and doors open.

Safety Measures to Follow During Gatherings

These preventative measures seem repetitive, but they decrease the chance of spreading corona. Ensure that all attendees wear proper protective masks and maintain a distance of at least six feet. Everyone should frequently wash their hands or use hand sanitizer and limit their contact with common surfaces, such as garbage cans and food containers. To minimize the risk of the virus on shared food packages, lay food out on individual plates for guests to grab. If implementing the appropriate precautions, small celebrations can occur without causing any harm. Following these guidelines ensures a safe and happy Halloween!