Port Isabel’s Halloween decorations near the Lighthouse on Oct. 13. Photo by Gaige Davila.
By Gaige Davila
editor@portisabelsouthpadre.com
Perhaps at no surprise to anyone, trick-or-treating has been discouraged by Cameron County this year, because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, traditional, door to door trick-or-treating is a high risk activity.
Even quintessential Halloween events, like haunted houses, are not being authorized by the county, according to Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño, Jr. However, drive-through events are a possibility, Treviño said, who also mentioned he was working with local entities on developing safe Halloween festivities.
Port Isabel City Manager Jared Hockema said the city is considering a drive-through Halloween event. Regarding trick-or-treating, “we are following the county’s lead,” Hockema said.
The City of South Padre Island does not have any “city-sanctioned” Halloween activities scheduled this year, but Public Information Officer Nikki Soto said the city is encouraging the community to follow Center for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines regarding COVID-19 and Halloween.
In Laguna Vista, City Manager Ed Meza said the town has no Halloween events planned but that they will allow trick-or-treating, so long as trick-or-treaters practice social distancing, wear face masks and are in groups of less than 10.
Laguna Vista Mayor Susie Houston told the PRESS that she will keep a basket of candy outside her home, waving as trick-or-treaters come by from her garage.
“I’m pretty sure that law enforcement will not be out arresting children or homeowners,” Houston said, referring to the county not authorizing trick-or-treating.
Hidalgo County Judge Richard Cortez announced on Oct. 9 the county was not allowing Halloween activities either, saying trick-or-treating is not allowed.
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