With social distancing, masks and limits on indoor gatherings, the holidays have looked a bit different since the COVID-19 pandemic hit. But for the first time since March, Cherry Hill residents may experience the closest thing to holiday normalcy yet with trick-or-treating taking place from 3 to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 31.
While the festivities are taking place as regularly scheduled this year, township officials are urging residents who participate to do so with safety in mind.
“Definitely, Halloween is a go in Cherry Hill, but we want to make sure people take extra caution this year; look out for one another,” said Mayor Susan Shin Angulo.
Shin Angulo said the township has heard mixed feedback from residents, with some eager to celebrate and others hesitant amid the ongoing pandemic.Officials understand the hesitancy, so signage is offered that residents can put on their front doors or windows to let trick-or-treaters know they won’t be distributing candy this year.
For those who do participate, there are a variety of ways to safely distribute candy. The mayor stressed it is best to individually package candy for trick-or-treaters to grab without having to use a shared bowl. Residents who plan on passing out candy should wear a mask and wash their hands between each group at their doors.
Trick-or-treaters themselves must wear a face mask; a costume facial covering is not considered an acceptable substitute. Shin Angulo said residents should also try to maintain a safe social distance whenever possible.
There is a 7 p.m. curfew in effect for children under the age of 18 not accompanied by an adult.
Those interested in downloading a sign to opt out of trick-or-treating can print one from the township website at https://bit.ly/3iEVKSP.
