By Gari Voss
All Hallows Eve will arrive October 31, 2023. Some communities set times for Trick-or-Treating. There are some special opportunities offered by specific organizations. Take a moment to ensure that everyone has a safe, fun evening.
The City of Allegan:
Downtown Businesses – 3-5:30pm
Residential trick-or-treat 5:30-8pm
Wear costumes appropriate for the weather and safe for walking; only knock on doors with a porch light on; always walk on the sidewalk or paths and look both ways when crossing streets; never trick-or-treat alone; BE SAFE.
Allegan Bible Church – 5-7pm – Indoor Trunk & Treat. 412 Sherman St., Allegan
City of Otsego
No designated time, but from 4-6pm, there will be a Trail for Treaters in Downtown Otsego presented by the Otsego Rotary.
City of Plainwell
No designated time on Oct. 31.
Mon., Oct. 30, 5:30-6:30: Trunk or Treat. Life Care Center of Plainwell, 320 Brigham St. All ghouls and goblins are welcome!
City of Fennville
Trick-or-Treat at homes with the porch light lit from 5-8pm. Be Safe!
The optimum words are BE SAFE. Some safety checks to make no matter if you decide to visit homes in the neighborhood, go to a haunted house or other large gatherings:
Be aware of open flame candles. Candles in jack-o-lanterns can attract young eyes and hands.
Always walk on sidewalks. Seems obvious, but excitement can cause crazy movement by walkers and divers who are checking out walkers.
Dress in bright costumes since they’re easier to see at night, or apply reflective tape or gear.
Avoid any sharp costume accessories to prevent injury.
Practice early evening trick-or-treating.
Always supervise young people when trick-or-treating. If an older sibling is accompanying a younger child, be sure to set timeline expectations and regular check-ins.
Trick-or-treat in large groups.
Don’t be afraid to use mobile tracking devices.
Only ring the doorbells of homes with porch lights on. There will be plenty of goodies to go around.
Wait on the porch. Never enter a house. Be careful of bushes or plants along the route to the porch or around the porch.
Inspect all candy before eating. Adults should throw out any opened candy, old treats, or suspicious looking items before giving them to a child.
In the “olden days”, there were often neighborhood watch teams who not only helped trick-or-treaters but ensured that young people did not damage private property, public property like restrooms, and special areas like cemeteries. Keeping a watchful eye out for children enjoying the holiday and for young people considering otherwise can be extremely helpful in every community.
Have a fun, safe Halloween!