Friday October 30, 2020 | GREATER VICTORIA
Article & photos by Kiley Verbowski for Island Social Trends
Halloween may be celebrated differently this year due to COVID safety protocols, but in many neighbourhoods the spirit of the season has possessed homes and yards all the same.
Many of the homes decorated every year are already dressed in their best, but small displays are fewer and farther in between. Some families have expressed to Island Social Trends that they are on the fence about trick-or-treating this year, and are hesitant to make a final decision regarding handing out candy. Perhaps more jack-o-lanterns will appear on stoops before October 31.
For those opting for a drive-thru Halloween (like this one taking place in Metchosin on Saturday October 31), this photo essay may inspire a few new spots on your route. For those in self-isolation, or otherwise homebound, enjoy this virtual tour of the outdoor decorations around town.
Wherever you decide to tow the ghouls and goblins this year, remember to bring lots of magic potion (hand sanitizer) and wear a mask! As always, keep a 6-foot (2 metre) distance away from people outside of your bubble and regularly disinfect objects that have been touched by multiple people.
If you decide to flip the porch light on and hand out candy, consider having a strategy in place to disperse large groups of trick-or-treaters. Clearly-marked paths on your property heading towards and away from the front door will work, but consider meeting trick-or-treaters at the end of your driveway, or spreading candy on your lawn.
Happy Halloween!
More Halloween decorated-home photos from around Victoria, Saanich, Colwood, Langford and Oak Bay:
===== LINKS:
A chance to jump ship for the night – astrology of Halloween (October 28, 2002)
Halloween retail adapts during COVID pandemic (October 26, 2020)
Ramping up to Halloween: the COVID mask (October 24, 2020)
COVID-Halloween in BC: no parties, wear mask, sanitize doorbell (October 5, 2020)
