Children won’t be able to trick or treat in downtown Pottsville this year, but will be able to participate in Halloween festivities in Port Carbon.
The Pottsville Business Association’s Safe Trick or Treat event has been canceled due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, it was announced on the organization’s Facebook page Thursday.
“Because of the size of the crowds this event has drawn, social distancing will be impossible to control,” the post reads. “Hope to see all those great costumes in 2021.”
Safe Trick or Treat draws children and parents to the downtown to collect candy at businesses.
City officials announced Wednesday the neighborhood trick-or-treat night will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31, but with adjustments to help curb the virus spread.
Parade, trick or treating will take place
In neighboring Port Carbon, the annual Halloween parade will take place at 3:30 p.m. on Halloween, according to a news release issued by Mayor Harold “Bucky” Herndon.
Spectators lining the parade route are asked to wear a face mask and abide by social distancing guidelines.
In addition, the tri-borough neighborhood trick-or-treat night will happen in the borough, Mechanicsville and Palo Alto from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Like Pottsville, there will be modifications:
- The event is intended for residents of the three boroughs only
- Trick-or-treaters are limited to small groups and/or families
- Participants should consider using a Halloween-themed cloth mask
- Everyone, including chaperones, should adhere to social distancing guidelines and wear face masks
- It is highly recommended those trick or treating carry hand sanitizer and use it frequently.
“All participants are reminded to practice traditional safety measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween,” Herndon said in the release.
Contact the writer: clee@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6028
