Historic Downtown Long Grove Becomes Halloween Town this October

Historic downtown Long Grove (www.longgrove.org) is transforming into Halloween Town in October, this time with COVID-19 measures enforced to provide visitors with a safe, yet fun way to celebrate fall. The Historic Downtown Long Grove Business Association (HDLGBA) is organizing a variety of Halloween-themed events throughout the month to enjoy the sights, sounds and thrills of the Halloween season within a vintage small-town setting not far from the big city. It's also a chance to experience Long Grove's renovated pedestrian comforts such as new sidewalks, night-time lighting and iconic Covered Bridge.

The HDLGBA is following State and local safety guidelines for Halloween Town month events, including the practice of social distancing, mask-wearing requirements, and the implementation of hand sanitation stations. Halloween Town 2020 highlights include (check www.LongGrove.org for updates and participating locations, etc.):

Saturday, October 10: DIY Scarecrow Day

Scarecrow engineers are invited to amass at Brothers Field (located next to Fred Astaire Dance Studio, 342 Old McHenry Rd, Long Grove, IL 60047) in the heart of town from 11 am to 6 pm on October 10 to build their own custom scarecrows with a socially-distanced setup. For $10, each set of builders will receive a wood base, straw for stuffing, and building guidance. Participants are asked to bring old clothing, shoes, hats, gloves, and accessories to dress their creations to their liking. Thereafter, all scarecrows are propped up throughout downtown Long Grove for the rest of the month adding to the colorful Halloween Town backdrop. In conjunction with this event, the HDLGBA is also hosting a clothing drive September 23-October 8. Clothing can be dropped off at the Long Grove Visitor's Center (307 Old McHenry Road).

Thursday, October 15: Witches Night Out

The 3rd annual Witches Night Out event takes place from 5 pm to 8 pm on October 15 throughout Halloween Town. Participating stores will stay open late on this magical night for grown-up witches and warlocks to have fun shopping, sipping and dining during this harvest-themed boutique hop. Participating businesses will have specials, discounts, giveaways and more planned for all who attend. Witches who register will be entered to win prizes donated by our merchants throughout the night.

Friday, October 23: Trick-or-Treating

Select Halloween Town business doors open from 2 pm to 5 pm on October 23 for a village-wide Trick-or-Treat bonanza. Parents and kids are invited to test out their Halloween costumes while strolling around town enjoying free sweets from store owners. Trick-or-Treaters and parents must wear masks while entering and leaving the stores and eat their candy outside or at home.

Friday, October 23: Tricks & Tales

From 4 pm to 6 pm on October 23, the Long Grove Historical Spook-ciety presents "Tricks & Tales." To complement an afternoon of treats, The Historical Society, Lions Club, and other members of the community will be performing free spooky skits at a variety of locations throughout Halloween Town.

Sunday, October 25: Pet Costume Parade

Pets and their owners are invited to woof it up while marching through Halloween Town in costume on October 25 at the 3rd annual Pet Costume Parade. There's no cost to watch or enter the parade, but all dogs must remain leashed. Weather permitting, the Pet Costume Parade will step off in downtown Long Grove at 11 am.

Halloween Town 2020 Summary Detail

Dates: October 10, 15, 23, 25

Location: 308 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove, IL 60047

Website: http://longgrove.org/festivals/halloween-trick-or-treating