Halloween Guidance By Montgomery County

Halloween Guidance By Montgomery County

Over the weekend it was reported by several outlets that Montgomery County had “called off” Halloween, but that isn’t the case.

MoCo put out a press release on Friday, October 2nd offering guidance to keep children and families safe during Halloween.

The release offers advice on how to minimize risks associated with the traditional ways of celebrating Halloween and urges households to plan early and identify safer alternatives to avoid the risk of spreading COVID-19.

 

Full press release from Montgomery County:

As Halloween approaches, Montgomery County officials are offering advice on how to minimize risks associated with the event during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of the traditional ways of celebrating do not allow people to minimize contact with non-household members so it is important to plan early and identify safer alternatives to avoid the risk of spreading COVID-19.

Due to the challenge of maintaining proper physical distancing on porches and at front doors on Halloween, traditional, door-to-door trick-or-treating is not recommended. In addition, the sharing of food through activities such as “trunk-or-treating,” where children go from car to car instead of door to door is also not recommended.

The County’s current Executive Order does not allow for events or activities of more than 50 people so large Halloween gatherings, even if held outdoors, are not permitted. Carnivals, festivals, live entertainment, and haunted house attractions are not allowed unless granted a letter of approval. A letter of approval can be submitted on the County’s COVID-19 website.

To promote a safer environment for children and families, the County is recommending the following alternative ways to celebrate Halloween this year:

  • Online parties/contests (e.g. costume or pumpkin carving);
  • Decorating homes, yards and neighborhoods with Halloween-themed decorations;
  • Car parades such as:
    • Drive-by events or contests where individuals dress up or decorate their vehicles and drive by “judges” that are appropriately physically distanced.
    • Drive-in or drive-through events where individuals remain in their vehicles and drive through an area with Halloween displays. Participants can receive a treat bag (limited to commercially packaged nonperishable treats) or other takeaway item from an organizer while the participants remain in their vehicle
  • Halloween movie nights at drive-in theaters (must comply with the public health drive-in movie theater guidance);
  • Halloween-themed meals at outdoor restaurants (must comply with the restaurant protocol); and
  • Halloween-themed art installations at an outdoor museum (must comply with the public health museum guidance).

Regardless of how you choose to celebrate Halloween, it is important to:

  • correctly wear a cloth face covering to prevent disease spread when outside your home and around others that are not part of your household;
  • avoid confined spaces. Actively stay away from indoor spaces that do not allow for easy distancing of at least six feet between you and others;
  • avoid close contact. Stay at least six feet away from all other people who are not part of your own household, especially while talking, eating, drinking;
  • follow safe practices while shopping in stores;
  • wash or sanitize your hands often;
  • clean frequently touched items regularly; and
  • if you are sick, or you have been in contact with someone who is sick with COVID-19 or has symptoms of COVID-19, stay home and away from others.

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Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.

Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.

Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.

Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.

As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.

Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.

LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!

MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME

2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES

KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!

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