Updated COVID-19 Halloween and fall festivity guidance to help celebrate safely.

That is according to the Illinois Department of Public Health. IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike says that COVID-19 vaccinations already mean a safer Halloween than last year, there are still precautions needed. 

Dr. Ezike says that it’s important to use a layered approach by wearing a mask indoors and limiting settings where physical distancing is not possible. 

The IDPH recommends masking for all indoor settings as per the mask mandate. The department says a costume mask is not a substitute for a well-fitting mask to prevent COVID-19 spread. Wearing a costume mask over a face covering is not recommended because it could make breathing more difficult. 

IDPH says those handing out candy indoors for trick-or-treating should open doors and windows as much as possible and to wear a mask. 

The department recommends small groups of people for pumpkin patches, orchard visits, fall festivals and haunted houses. It also says that indoor Halloween parties require masking, especially in areas where physical distancing is difficult. 

More information at dph.illinois.gov