Halloween and Trick-or-Treating in Arlington Heights

August 28, 2023

Reminders and information for Halloween

What are Trick-or-Treating Hours in Arlington Heights?
For those who choose to participate in Halloween activities, the Village recommends residents limiting trick-or-treating to 3-7 p.m., on October 31st.

What if I don’t want to participate in Halloween?
When it comes to Halloween, each resident must make the decision as to whether or not they would like to engage festive activities, and if so, to what level they feel most comfortable. We ask everyone to be a good neighbor and to please be respectful of others and their decisions to participate/not participate in Trick-or-Treating this year.

Will the Village change trick-or-treating hours if the weather is bad?
The Village does not intend on moving trick-or-treating hours due to bad weather conditions due to the following reasons:

The Village cannot prohibit children from trick-or-treating on Halloween night. If the date was changed, it is highly likely that many children will still trick-or-treat on October 31st. An alternate date will create additional time and candy burdens for homeowners.
The Village has publicly recommended trick-or-treating hours from 3-7 p.m., to encourage safety. However, there is no official policy or ordinance in place with designated or enforceable hours, beyond recommended guidance. Therefore, the Village does not have official regulatory control to enforce changes to the date on which Halloween is recognized through the cultural practice of trick-or-treating.
Drivers on Halloween night generally anticipate trick-or-treaters. Not all drivers on a different day would be aware of the rescheduled trick-or-treating hours and may not anticipate children, creating an unnecessary risk.

Are there any festive alternatives to trick-or-treating?
The Arlington Heights Park District is once again hosting a Trunk-or-Treat event On Saturday, Oct. 28th, from 2 - 5 p.m. Contact the Arlington Heights Park District for registration information.

What safety reminders should I keep in mind when it comes to Trick-or-Treating?

Parents or an older sibling should accompany children and make sure they don't enter anyone's home without your permission.
Map out a Trick-or-Treat route for your children to follow.
Make sure kids cross only at corners and look in all directions first. Caution them against crossing the street between parked cars, where drivers may not be able to see them.
Remind them to use sidewalks or walk facing traffic so approaching cars can be seen.
Fasten reflective tape to costumes and/or bags to help drivers see them.
Warn children not to eat any goodies until parents have had a chance to inspect them. When in doubt, throw it out.

For more general safety tips, visit the CDC's Halloween Guidance page.