Did you know? 

Halloween celebrations first started in America as different ethnic groups and cultures started to come together. The original celebrations were public events that celebrated the harvest. Communities would gather to tell stories of those who had passed, ghost stories, and share song and dance.

Trick-or-treating did not become more popular until the 1950s. Now, Halloween is celebrated as a community and family friendly tradition across the country. Learn more about the history of Halloween! https://www.history.com/topics/halloween/history-of-halloween 

Image generated using AI; content is for illustrative purposes only.

As you and your families get ready for another year of trick-or-treating, here are a few guidelines that can help keep everyone safe and respectful. 

Times and Routes

• While there are no set hours to trick-or-treat in Carver County, suggested hours are 5 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Sticking to this timeframe helps everyone enjoy the evening and keep things safe.
• Stick to familiar, well-lit neighborhoods and plan a safe walking path in advance.
• Only approach homes with porch lights on to respect those not participating.
• Be mindful of causing limited disruptions in late hours, as to not affect the homes with young children and elderly residents.

Safety

• Stay visible: use flashlights or glow sticks, remain on sidewalks, use designated crosswalks, avoid dimly light areas or lawns, go in groups
• Costumes: Make sure costumes fit well to avoid tripping, choose face paint over masks (for visibility, safety, and identification), add reflective accessories, avoid sharp or dangerous accessories
• Weather: Check weather forecast in advance, dress appropriately for warmth or rain, have comfortable footwear

Treats

• Those families who choose to distribute treats, it’s always welcome to include a variety to accommodate those with dietary restrictions (fruity snacks, non-food items, etc.)
• Only individually wrapped food items should be distributed
• Parents should inspect food/candy before consumption, especially for any allergen risks

Wondering what to do with all the extra candy that you were unable to distribute or will not consume? Here are some local places that will accept wrapped, unopened candy: 

• Hope House in Chanhassen – provide candy to children staying at the foster home
• Camp Smile Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in Chaska, Excelsior, and Plymouth
• Check local foodbanks near you
• Review other candy drop-off sites

Looking for last minute family-friendly costume ideas?

Here are some DIY ideas: 

• Minion: always a hit for all ages! All you need is a bright yellow shirt, banana, beanie, denim, and googles.
• Animal costumes: make a quick mask (mouse, cat, dog, etc.) using paper plates, paint, construction paper, and string. Match it with shirt-pants of the same color.
• Mary Poppins: white button-down, black skirt, umbrella, hat, oversized bag, and a spoonful of sugar!
• Mad scientist: messy hair or a wig, pair with a white coat and yellow dish gloves. Mismatching accessories will only enhance the look!
• Yarn & Needle: with the growth of crocheting and knitting as hobbies, create a no-sew look. Carry some jumbo yarn, wear something made of wool, and have two dowels or long sticks with hooks or caps.
• Barbie: pink, metallic, glitter!
• Rock, Paper, Scissors: for a group of three- wear matching, single color outfits, draw or pin cut-out rock, paper, or scissors on each shirt.
• Inside Out: in a group, dress in the same color as your favorite emotion and create core memories! 
• Pet costumes: watchdog (a shirt with watch-faces), business professional (a tie and collar), bat (Velcro, felt, pipe cleaners to create bat wings)

With a few thoughtful precautions, Halloween can be a memorable, safe, and enjoyable experience for all. Remember to be mindful of timing, dress for safety, and respect community guidelines. Wishing everyone a fun, festive, and safe Halloween night filled with laughter and treats!

Image generated using AI; content is for illustrative purposes only.

Stop by the Chanhassen Fire Station

If you’re trick-or-treating on Halloween night, make sure to stop by the Chanhassen Fire Station for some candy! Firefighters will be doing a meet-and-greet and handing out candy to any costumed kids who stop by (provided there are no emergencies they need to attend to).