Coronavirus: Los Angeles County bans trick-or-treating, other Halloween events

LOS ANGELES – Los Angeles county officials metaphorically handed out pennies to trick-or-treaters after banning traditional Halloween revelry this year because of the coronavirus pandemic.

“Since some of the traditional ways in which this holiday is celebrated (do) not allow you to minimize contact with non-household members, it is important to plan early and identify safer alternatives,” county health officials said. “Door-to-door trick-or-treating is not allowed because it can be very difficult to maintain proper social distancing on porches and at front doors especially in neighborhoods that are popular with trick-or-treaters. ‘Trunk-or-treating’ events, where children go from car-to-car instead of door-to-door to receive treats, are also not allowed.”

Halloween can be celebrated through online parties or virtual costume or pumpkin carving contests, officials said. Drive-through events are also permitted but items handed out should be “commercially packaged, non-perishable treats.”

Participants should still wear masks, practice social distancing and follow safety regulations.