Post date: Oct 16, 2020, 7:26 PM
We have received a few inquiries from residents about Halloween trick-or-treating in the neighborhood during these COVID-19 pandemic times.
While "Trick or Treat" participation falls outside the purview of HOA regulations, we would like to pass along a few recommendations based on guidance that has been published by both Fairfax County and the CDC, which can be viewed at the following websites:
Fairfax County guidance on Halloween activities: https://bit.ly/36mMIYj (short link), or you may use the following expanded link: https://fairfaxcountyemergency.wpcomstaging.com/2020/10/01/traditional-trick-or-treating-not-recommended-for-halloween-safe-alternatives-available/
CDC guidance for fall/winter holiday celebrations: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays.html
These websites note that many traditional Halloween activities can be higher risk for spreading the virus, and recommend safer, alternative ways to participate in the holiday.
For example, they recommend that residents do not participate in traditional trick-or-treating where Halloween treats are handed directly to children who go door to door. As a safer alternative, they suggest one-way trick-or-treating, where residents who want to participate put out treats ahead of time, and then families with children may walk by and grab some while remaining physically distanced from one another.
Please review these websites for some additional suggestions for lower risk activities. The websites also note that if you believe you have COVID-19 or have recently been in contact with someone that has the virus, you should refrain from participating in these activities. Recommendations for safe and effective face coverings are also provided on these websites.
Thank you for your consideration of these recommendations, as it is in the interest of our entire community to help keep both ourselves and our neighbors healthy and safe while the pandemic is still ongoing in our area.