Halloween represents an exciting and fun time of the year for children and adults alike, but the current Halloween season may look different this year in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Everyone can protect themselves from COVID-19 by avoiding people who live outside of your household, wearing a cloth face-covering in public settings, frequent hand washing and staying six feet apart from each other,” said Eleanor “Sue” Cantrell, M.D., director of the Cumberland Plateau and LENOWISCO Health Districts.

As parents and their children try to seek normalcy on the spooky holiday while also staying safe, you can find some safe events being offered in the Hampton Roads area.

  • Oct. 24 and Oct. 25 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. — Zoo Boo, the annual Virginia Zoo event, will follow the approved health and safety guidelines already in place. Admission is limited and advanced ticketing is required.
  • Oct. 24 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. — Norfolk Police, Norfolk Public Library and Recreation, Parks and Open Space will host a drive-thru Trunk or Treat at Lake Taylor High School, 1384 Kempsville Road. Wear your costumes. Guests must remain in a vehicle. Walk-ups are not permitted. Registration is required per vehicle.
  • OpenNorfolk will provide a spooky good time with outdoor events at the Neighborhood Spots in Five Points.
  • If you are looking for at-home Halloween activities, be sure to check out SevenVenues’ Halloween Activity Booklet. The booklet features legendary ghost stories, theatre-themed DIY Halloween costumes, yummy recipes, spooky games, and more.

“I am grateful for the guidance from the health experts which will help Norfolk residents make informed decisions. I am counting on everyone to keep our COVID-19 positivity rate low and follow the health guidelines if they choose to participate in Halloween activities,” said Dr. Chip Filer, Norfolk City Manager.

To learn more about how to protect yourself and your family from COVID-19 during the Halloween season, see VDH Interim Guidelines for Participating in Halloween Events and the CDC’s Guidance for Holiday Celebrations.

Here’s a list of the latest Halloween Happenings throughout Hampton Roads provided by WAVY.


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By vascope