October 31 is Halloween, a very popular holiday in the United States. Many people look forward to Halloween all year long. This year, however, the COVID-19 means Halloween will look a little different. Many traditional activities and events have been canceled or changed. These activities include trick-or-treating, outdoor festivals, and indoor haunted houses.

Big events

Large community events and outdoor festivals across the U.S. have been canceled or changed. Near the city of San Francisco, California, a well-known Halloween event was supposed to celebrate its 50th birthday this year. Now, it has been canceled.

Neighborhood events

Many neighborhoods across the U.S. hold big Halloween parties. Streets shut down to cars and people living on the street throw parties. Some streets become well known for their Halloween celebrations. An area called Webster Groves, near St. Louis, Missouri, is one example. People who live there decorate their houses, give out candy and have parties. As many as 1,000 people visit for Halloween. But not this year. One homeowner there said her family plans to decorate the outside of their house as usual. She wants her neighbors to feel the Halloween spirit. But they will not give out candy.

Trick-or-treating — a Halloween tradition

Trick-or-treating is the main Halloween activity for children and families. Children dress up in costume and then go door-to-door asking for candy, while singing “Trick-or-treat! Give me something good to eat!” Each area of the United States is dealing with trick-or-treating differently. Many cities and states have canceled trick-or-treating. And many parents are still deciding whether to let their children go trick-or-treating.