My Mountain Town 2020 Halloween Event Guide

HappyCamper, I absolutely agree that everyone needs to weigh their individual risk in regards to what's happening with cases. You know I have been a vocal proponent of safety measures, sharing data to keep everyone aware of what's happening, encouraging people to take this pandemic seriously, and fighting back against misinformation and lies. That said, I also believe that events can be held if done safely and within current state and county guidelines; the rise in outbreaks we're seeing is because we're suffering pandemic fatigue and too many have gotten lax about taking safety precautions (and college students are having far too many parties). Some of the events listed above are virtual, some limit the number of participants (the Evergreen costume parade, for example, is already full from what I hear), and others are held outdoors and taking precautions to maintain 6'+ distance/limit contact between participants (the South Park City Museum and Trunk or Treats are are drive-thru's for example, and Staunton's Hike Or Treat is a self-guided hike rather than volunteers in costume handing out candy along the trail. Being outside is safer than staying indoors).

With all of these events, I encourage people to be as safe as possible, and not do anything that they aren't comfortable doing. If anyone has conditions that put them at higher risk, or spends time around others who are, then continue to avoid any gatherings. If you aren't a member of the Boys & Girls Club of the High Rockies Club after school, for example, then consider donating to help support them rather than attending their event. If your kids are already participants of that program and spending time with the other kids there already, then they are simply spending more time with their close cohort and it's no different than any other day they are together.

Some of these events help support our area nonprofits whose services are vital to many in the Foothills. They have had to cancel many fundraising events this year, and are struggling to bring in the donations they usually do. They don't have to hold an event, and we don't have to attend, for us to continue supporting them, so please keep them in mind and send them donations if you are able! Thank you!