Happy Halloween: Tips for a fun and safe holiday

For kids, it’s a night of candy and fun; for parents, a night with plenty of worry. But Richmond Confidential has a few tricks to make sure your Halloween is a treat.

For families who choose not to allow younger children out after dark to trick-or-treat or for those simply looking for a new way to celebrate, there are a variety of alternative events throughout the weekend.

A halloween decoration at last year's Hauntatorium. (photo by: Ashley Hopkinson)

The Hilltop Mall will host a kid-friendly celebration Saturday, October 29 from noon to 2 p.m. Children are invited to come in costume to the J.C. Penney Court. The festivities include a parade around the mall, costume competition, arts and crafts and, of course, candy — lots of candy.

The RYSE Center off of Macdonald Avenue is hosting a Halloween event in honor of the group’s third anniversary from 3-7 p.m. The celebration will include a Living Dead haunted house, Dia de Los Muertos art and a pie-eating contest among other activities for youth and their families.

Richmond’s Recreation Department has a full list of holiday events this weekend, including a “Floating Pumpkin Patch” at Plunge in Point Richmond, a “Hauntatorium” at the Civic Center and a number of house parties. Police Lt. Bisa French said many neighborhoods are planning small block parties for locals.

Have a safe Halloween, Richmond! (photo courtesy of: WikiCommons)

Those planning to trick-or-treat on Halloween should plan ahead to stay safe. If kids will be out after dark, they should carry a flashlight or glowstick so they are visible to cars. Trick-or-treaters should also travel in groups and avoid unfamiliar areas.

Abetkov said there have been “grab and runs” in the past where individuals dash up to trick-or-treaters, snatch bags of candy from children and flee. She said that since the police department has deployed more visible officers during the night of Halloween, these incidents have decreased, but advises parents and kids to remain aware of their surroundings.

French said children should avoid eating candy on their route. An adult should check all treats to make sure they are thoroughly wrapped and have not been tampered with.

For a full list of Recreation Department approved events, click here.