October 31 is approaching and with it, one of the most anticipated nights of the year for children: Halloween, the date when costumes, lanterns and candy become the protagonists of streets and neighborhoods.
However, beyond the fun, the authorities of different states agree on a common priority: maintaining security. That’s why, have issued recommendations on the safest times to perform the traditional “Trick-or-Treat” throughout the United States.
What time does Trick-or-Treat start in 2025?
Although hours vary slightly by region, most American cities follow a similar pattern. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), The best time to go trick-or-treating is between 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. when there is still some natural light, the streets are active and there is a police or neighborhood presence.
The National Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) recommends starting the activity just after the school day, around 5 p.m., especially for young children. As it gets dark, It is advisable to reduce trips and return home before 9 p.m. when visibility decreases and night traffic increases.
In rural areas or suburbs, where distances are greater and lighting may be limited, Authorities suggest starting even at 4:30 p.m. to take advantage of the evening light. In contrast, Large cities, with illuminated streets and densely populated neighborhoods, usually extend Trick-or-Treat until 9:00 p.m. or 9:30 p.m. always under adult supervision.
The ideal schedule in New York
In New York, one of the most emblematic cities to celebrate Halloween, Municipal authorities and the NYPD recommend that children start trick-or-treating at 4:30 or 5 p.m. (ET), and conclude no later than 8:30 p.m.
Family-friendly neighborhoods, like Park Slope in Brooklyn or the Upper West Side in Manhattan, schedule their tours early to take advantage of daylight and ensure safety. According to the New York Department of Parks and Recreation, many streets are even partially closed to traffic between 4 and 8 p.m. (ET), creating a controlled and safe environment.
The 5 Best Places to Trick or Treat in New York
New York has established itself as one of the most festive cities in the country on Halloween. These are the 5 best places to trick-or-treat in 2025, based on local recommendations and neighborhood communities:
1) Park Slope (Brooklyn): One of the safest and most familiar neighborhoods. The streets are decorated and the houses compete to have the most creative facades.
2) Upper West Side (Manhattan): Between 69th and 80th streets, hundreds of families come out each year with coordinated costumes and bags full of candy.
3) Astoria (Queens): Combines tradition and cultural diversity. In addition to sweets, some neighbors offer typical international sweets.
4) Staten Island’s Historic Richmond Town: Recreate an old-fashioned Halloween, with themed decorations and family-friendly tours.
5) Jackson Heights (Queens): Ideal for those looking for a multicultural experience. Local shops and restaurants join the party.
Tips for a safe night
To make the Trick-or-Treat experience fun and smooth, experts recommend preparing some basic elements in advance:
* Flashlights or glow sticks: essential for walking through dark streets.
* Reflective tapes on the costume: They increase visibility to vehicles.
* Additional bags: Children usually fill their main containers quickly.
* Water bottles: Staying hydrated is important, especially on long rides.
The authorities also insist on reviewing the collected sweets before consuming them and avoid those that are open or unwrapped. Besides, children under 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult, and the elderly must maintain constant communication by telephone.
Keep reading:
* This is what the weather will be like in the US this Halloween 2025
* 6 tips so that your children can celebrate Halloween safely
* From the Bronx to Brooklyn: the 15 locations of the 2025 “Trick-or-Streets” festival in New York