Halloween on Beacon Hill Tonight

Halloween on Beacon Hill is well-known beyond the borders of Beacon and Cambridge Streets. Hundreds, if not thousands, trek to the Hill to see its great decorations and trick-or-treat on its cobbled streets. 

Maybe it's because of Sandy, but walking around Tuesday morning it seemed this year's decorations were more subdued than last year's. Still, there is time for that to change, and with the current forecast of likely dry skies and not-too-cold air, superheroes and princesses should be out in force. Click here to see last year's scene and here to see last year's costumes. 

To ensure a safe Halloween, the Beacon Hill Civic Association has arranged to close Pinckney Street and Mount Vernon Street from Joy Street to Charles Street on Wednesday, October 31.

The BHCA is asking residents to note that these official road closures will prevent access to Chestnut, Spruce, Walnut, and Willow streets, as well as Louisburg Square and sections of West Cedar Street and Cedar Lane Way. Roads will be blocked from 4:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., so please plan accordingly. 

To encourage a safe and fun holiday for all residents and visitors in Boston, Mayor Menino announced that public safety agencies will provide increased visibility in neighborhoods and reminded residents of important safety tips, particularly for families with young children.

The mayor's office issued these safety guidelines:

Costumes

• Costumes should be bright-colored or have reflective tape to highlight them.
• All parts of the costume should be labeled flame-retardant.
• The eye holes on masks should be large enough to see through clearly.
• Keep costumes short to avoid getting caught under feet and causing slipping or falling.
• Children should wear sturdy shoes and temperature appropriate clothing underneath their costumes.

Trick-or-Treating

• Children should be accompanied by an adult. It’s best to take smaller children out earlier in the evening.
• If older children are going out unaccompanied, go over the ground rules first! They should travel in a group, and an adult should know which neighborhoods they will be in.
• Carry a flash light or glow stick to increase visibility to drivers.
• Only trick-or-treat in familiar areas that are well lit. Only approach houses where the outside lights are on as a signal of welcome.

Pedestrian Safety

• Cross streets at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks.
• Always walk, don’t run, when crossing streets.
• Make eye contact with drivers and watch for cars that are turning or backing up. 

Checking Treats

• Throw out anything that appears tampered with, such as home-made foods or home-packaged foods, unless you are certain of the source.
• Inspect fruit closely and take away treats that are not age-appropriate. Young children may choke on items like hard candy or peanuts. 

Tips for Drivers

• Be especially alert. Remember that popular trick-or-treating hours are during the typical rush-hour period.
• Drive more slowly and anticipate heavier than usual pedestrian traffic.
• Be sure to drive with your full headlights on so you can spot children from greater distances.