Here's What You Shouldn't Do This Halloween, County Officials Say

MECKLENBURG COUNTY, NC — This year, Halloween celebrations have a whole new added level of fear and fright due to the ongoing pandemic. Even with the potential threat of coronavirus spread, there are plenty of things you can do, and definitely things you should not do, while celebrating the holiday while keeping safe, according to Mecklenburg County Public Health.

"Unfortunately, in 2020 during a Pandemic, there are several 'traditional' Halloween activities that are not recommended," MCPH said. "In particular, any type of gathering that does not adhere to the 3 Ws and increases the risk of exposure to COVID-19 should be avoided before, during and after Halloween."

Among the activities health officials say should be avoided this year are large block parties, haunted houses, traditional trick-or-treating in crowded areas and substituting a costume mask for a face mask.

Here's the list of MCPH's rules for Halloween this year:

Do Participate In

• Carve pumpkins and decorate your home with your family
• Drive around and check out your neighbor's decorations as well
• Host a virtual Halloween costume party
• Make individually wrapped candy available or individually wrapped goodie bags. Wash your hands before and after preparing bags.
• Space out candy or goody bags in a safe place outside, preferably 6 feet from your door.
• Wear your favorite costume and a cloth face covering to your favorite socially distancing restaurant with your family.
• Make and enjoy your favorite fall beverage and foods at home with your family.
• Create a scavenger hunter in your yard for your own children
• Wear your favorite costume and have a Halloween movie night with your family.

Do Not Participate In

• Host or attend large neighborhood pumpkin carving or block parties, haunted houses or festivals.
• Host or attend crowded costume parties or events.
• Participate in traditional trick-or-treating in crowded areas, self-selecting candy, or touching of candy or candy dishes.
• Go to crowded bars or restaurants that are not adhering to capacity limits, mask wearing or other COVID-19 safety guidance.
• Ask the bartender for a drink after 11 p.m.
• Host "truck" or treat events.
• Substitute a Halloween costume mask for a face covering or exchange masks or coverings with anyone else.

A printable version of these rules may be found here.

SEE ALSO

• Halloween In NC: Avoid 'High Risk' Trick-Or-Treating, CDC Says
• 2020 Halloween March In Downtown Davidson Canceled
• Parents Wary Of Trick-Or-Treating Amid Pandemic: NC Patch Survey