We are looking forward to a fun Halloween season! Below are some of our favorite tips and tricks for a fun and safe holiday.
Be allergy aware
Many trick or treaters have food allergies or dietary restrictions that can really put a damper on the Halloween fun. The Teal Pumpkin Project was started to let trick or treaters know which houses offer non-food and allergy-friendly treat options. Their website has a map where you can search for participating houses in your community. You can also add yourself to the map if you offer candy alternatives.
Stay together and be visible
Did you know here in Massachusetts the sun will set on October 31 at 5:39pm? If you are planning on heading out to trick or treat in busy or poorly lit areas, it’s best to make sure everyone in your group has a light or reflective material to make themselves visible to oncoming cars. Many costumes are dark and can make trick or treaters hard to see if you are out late.
Fire safety
Jack-o-lanterns, paper luminary bags, and candles are wonderful traditional Halloween decorations, but come with a real potential for danger. The US Fire Administration has estimated that from 2019-2019 an average of 9,200 fires were reported across America in the three days around Halloween.* It is strongly recommended to switch to electric candles for all your Halloween decorating needs. Check that your child’s costume is flame retardant/resistant, and remind trick or treaters about stop, drop, and roll before heading out for the evening,
Know when to go
Many towns have started to set specific trick or treating hours. Your city or town website should have all of this information posted in advance, and some local news stations will compile an easy to search list.
Know your options
Sometimes going out on Halloween night may be too much for a kiddo to handle, especially on a school night. Many towns, business, and local community groups host truck or treats, Main Street trick or treating, and Halloween parties that provide children with the experience of Halloween at a time or location that works better for them.
North Shore Children’s Museum will be participating in Peabody’s Nightmare on Main Street downtown trick or treating event on October 26, 2023 from 4-6PM. NSCM is also throwing a Halloween party at the museum on October 27, 2023 from 5-7pm. Details for each even are available on Our Programs page, and tickets for the Halloween party are on sale now while supplies last.
We hope you have a safe and fun Halloween!