“This time of year is one of the most anticipated for our families, and every year, we strive to outdo ourselves and make each event better than the last. I am extremely proud of how our team comes together to make East Orange a popular destination during this season,” said Mayor Ted R. Green. “My administration is committed to providing safe, family-friendly spaces for fun, and these events are great opportunities to connect our community and create collective memories that will last a lifetime.”
As trick-or-treaters make their rounds around town, EOPD would like to encourage motorists and pedestrians to practice the following safety tips for a safer and fun-filled night:
- See and be seen! Select bright costumes, add reflective tape and/or carry flashlights and glow sticks.
- Plan your trick-or-treat route in advance. Stick to familiar neighborhoods and well-lit streets. For those on the Nextdoor app, check out its annual Treat Map, which allows people to share how they will be celebrating – whether it’s decorating one’s home or taking part in the neighborhood trick-or-treating by giving out candy.
- Be sure your child’s activities are age-appropriate
- All children should be accompanied by an adult
- Only visit homes that are well-lighted and never go into a stranger’s house
- Stay on the sidewalk and only cross at corners
- Stay in well populated areas and never cut through alleys or parks after dark
- Use face paint rather than masks that may block your child’s vision
- Map out your route ahead of time and carry a flashlight with you
- Ensure props (pitchforks, swords, etc.) do not have sharp edges
- Be cautious of dogs on the loose and keep your pet(s) indoors
- Inspect your child’s candy before allowing them to eat it
- Report any suspicious or illegal activity by calling 9-1-1 immediately
- Motorists are advised to be extra cautious on Halloween night and to drive slowly
- Do not drink and drive; plan ahead and designate a driver or call for a sober ride
Here is a full schedule of city-sponsored events:
Friday, October 27 | 4:30pm at Rowley Park, North Arlington and William Streets
Trunk or Treat Movie Nite featuring ‘It’s a Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown,” music, games, goody bags and more! Sponsored by Mayor Ted R. Green, Second Ward Councilmembers Christopher Awe and Brittany Claybrooks, and the Department of Recreation & Cultural Affairs in partnership with the East Orange YMCA, Joi’s Angels and Lot Stop.
Saturday, October 28 | 12pm-2pm at Soverel Park, 10 N. Park Street
Harvest Festival and Trunk Or Treat featuring pumpkin decorating, treats, festive photobooth, games and more! Sponsored by First Ward Councilmembers Christopher James and Amy Lewis and the Department of Recreation & Cultural Affairs in partnership with Ladies in Law Enforcement.
Monday, October 30 | 3pm-5pm at East Orange Public Library, 21 S. Arlington Avenue
Joi’s Angels Costume Giveaway for children ages 2-12 (while supplies last). This is ONLY open to East Orange residents. For more information, please call 973.266.5627. Sponsored by Joi’s Angels in partnership with the East Orange Public Library.
Tuesday, October 31 • 4pm-9pm at Elmwood Park, 133 Elmwood Avenue
Spooktacular Trunk or Treat featuring a Haunted House of Horrors, music, food, pumpkin picking, and plenty of treats! Sponsored by Mayor Ted R. Green, East Orange City Council, and the Department of Recreation & Cultural Affairs in partnership with the Ted R. Green Foundation and Langston Hughes PTO.
All events are free and open to the public (unless otherwise noted). For more information, please call 973.266.5151.