When To Trick Or Treat In Falls Church, More Halloween Activities

FALLS CHURCH, VA — Trick-or-treating doesn't have a set time in many Northern Virginia communities, which means you can expect little ghosts and ghouls to show up to your doorstep on the evening of Halloween.

That applies to the City of Falls Church, when families typically trick-or-treat on Halloween. This year, Halloween falls on Tuesday, Oct. 31.

If you live within a homeowners association or apartment complex, check with them on trick-of-treat times, as they may be different from Oct. 31.

For more Halloween fun, check out the various trunk-or-treat events around Falls Church or the Halloween Carnival on Saturday, Oct. 28.

The Halloween Carnival presented by Dr. Toothfairy is a family-friendly event with carnival games, inflatables, candy, fall snacks, pizza. and more. It will be held in Cherry Hill Park with the option to get tickets for one time slot: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Wristbands to attend cost $1 each for children 3 and older and adults. Children 2 and under attend for free. Volunteers can sign up to help with the carnival here.

Safety Tips for Trick-or-Treat

For Trick-or-Treaters

• Travel in groups with at least one responsible adult.
• Only approach well-lit homes.
• Adults should carry flashlights. Children can carry flashlights or glow sticks.
• Travel on sidewalks and use caution when crossing streets. Do not jaywalk.
• Costumes should not be restrictive, should not hinder the child’s vision, and should be clearly visible at night. Costumes with light reflecting materials are highly recommended. Glow stick necklaces and bracelets are a great addition to any costume.
• Wait until you are home in a well-lit room before consuming candy.
• Although tampering is rare, a responsible adult should closely examine all treats and throw away any of the following candies that have: an unusual appearance or discoloration, tiny pinholes or tears in wrappers, spoiled or unwrapped items, and homemade items or baked goods (unless you know and trust the people who gave them).

For Residents Handing Out Candy

• If you are handing out treats, make sure your porch light is on and walkways are lit.
• Sweep your driveway and walkway to prevent scraped knees and other accidents.
• Keep your pet in a room away from the front door. You’ll keep them less stressed, prevent unwanted harm and protect them from getting loose.
• Use LED lights instead of real candles in jack-o-lanterns and other decorations.
• Hand out pre-packaged treats only; do not bake or hand out fruit. Consider non-candy items like stickers, glow sticks, or other novelty items that can be enjoyed by everyone regardless of allergies and age.