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ELKINS -- Area youngsters will get a slight return to normalcy when they change into ghouls, ghosts and other creatures of the night during Elkins' trick-or-treating Saturday from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
With all that has transpired this year with COVID-19, children being able to celebrate Halloween night in a way that is close to years past is important to Elkins Mayor Van Broughton.
"We wanted to do something special for the kids since they haven't been able to do much this year," he said. "I'm excited that the kids are getting a chance to go out and have a little fun. I hope they all go out and have a good time."
The City of Elkins is asking residents to take some special precautions to help combat the spread of COVID on the upcoming hallowed night.
"We're asking for the kids to use social distancing and to wear their masks," he said. "If people are wanting to participate we are asking that they turn their porch light on, and if possible pre-package the candy in bags so the kids can just walk up and take it without having to get too close."
Residents driving around town during the hours of trick-or-treating are reminded to keep a close eye out for children.
"If you're out and about and driving on Halloween night, please slow down and keep your eyes open," said Elkins Chief of Police Travis Bennett. "Children might be running across streets in the middle of the block and might not be paying attention to traffic because they're so excited."
Bennett said it's equally important for children and their parents to do their part when out on Saturday night.
"This Halloween is going to be different from past ones in many ways, but we still need to work together to keep the kids safe," said Bennett. "Parents, make sure your trick-or-treaters are visible to drivers by not using dark-colored costumes at night or at least adding reflective tape. And check costume masks to see if they restrict your child's field of vision."
The City of Elkins is also requesting that residents stay clear of attending indoor parties with people from multiple households.
Other local trick-or-treat times Saturday include:
• Beverly, trick or treating from 6:30 – 8 p.m.
• Buckhannon, trick or treating from 6 – 7:30 p.m.
• Montrose, trick or treating from 6 – 8 p.m.
• Parsons, a candy drive-thru from 4 – 6 p.m.
• Philippi, trick or treating from 5:30 – 7 p.m.