Nothing in 2020 will be the same due to the pandemic, and Halloween, which is just a few weeks away, will not be an exception. However, US state health officials made ways for Americans to have fun while minimizing the coronavirus’s spread.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released holiday guidelines for Halloween, where 37 states complied with and made ample protocols to celebrate without violating the national order. Local officials in the US have been working to adjust to the new guidelines through changes in community events or canceling it instead.
Some states canceled Halloween parades and trick-or-treating events due to a resurgence of new COVID-19 cases. Health officials suggest placing candy in yards or driveways and using mini pumpkins to prevent crowding at the door.
“Many children and families in Washington are wanting to know what happens on Halloween this year. This holiday, along with most of our holidays, will look and feel a bit different. The good news is that with some changes, we can find meaningful and fun ways to celebrate while still working to reduce COVID-19 transmission in our state.”
Lacy Fehrenbach, Deputy Secretary of Health for COVID-19
By sticking to the initial anti-coronavirus guidelines like wearing cloth masks, frequent sanitation, and social distancing, people can still celebrate spooky Halloween this year. Health experts also advised people to avoid high-risk activities like the traditional trick-or-treat, hayrides, and indoor costume parties.
If you insist on trick-or-treating, maintain the social distance, and avoid close contact with other people. Do not use plastic costume masks as a substitute for cloth masks, so ensure that you wear a cloth mask underneath your costume.
Instead of indoor parties, have a Halloween costume contest online and decorate your house for a scavenger hunt around your yard or inside your home. As cities canceled popular events with large gatherings, you can have a movie marathon with your favorite treats and your family.
Texas, one of the worst affected states in the US, canceled Halloween events like the annual “Screams Halloween Theme Park” on Waxahachie, Trick or Treat at Werewolf Creek in College Station, and Haunted Hayride in Crowley. Meanwhile, the Halloween Safe Streets in Shenandoah will still occur on October 31 but have measures to follow for reduced foot traffic.
More than 7.6 million Americans and 214,000 died due to the coronavirus pandemic as of October 5, making the US the highest country with COVID-19 cases in the world.
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