3:50 p.m.
Thursday, October 1, 2020 3:52 pm

Halloween celebrations will look a little different in Rochester this year.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the mayor is discouraging traditional door to door trick-or-treating. However, the Recreation Department is planning various alternatives for children and families.

"The staff at the Recreation Department did a great job with their summer stay-at-home programming," said Mayor Caroline McCarley. "They've presented several fun activities for families looking for safer options this year."

Although the city is not canceling trick-or-treat, the mayor is urging residents to consider alternatives to help stop the spread of COVID-19.

"Halloween happens to fall on a Saturday this year, so participating in trick-or-treating will be a decision left to parents and individual property owners," said McCarley. "We strongly suggest that everyone make it as safe as possible. Wear a mask, gloves, socially distance, and stay in your own neighborhoods."

The City of Rochester is encouraging residents to follow state recommendations set by Governor Sununu's office. State officials are recommending what Sununu called "commonsense reminders" to help children and adults avoid spreading COVID-19:

• Stay home if you are not feeling well.

• Consider wearing a mask over your nose and mouth when trick-or-treating and handing out treats.

• Avoid large gatherings or parties and find ways to trick-or-treat while staying at least 6 feet away from others, including when handing out and accepting treats.

• Practice frequent hand cleaning - bring a bottle of alcohol-based hand sanitizer with you while trick-or-treating, and use it often.

The state published a trick-or-treat safety sheet, available at www.readynh.gov. Visit www.rochesterrec.com to see the alternative events hosted by the Recreation Department.