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Here Are Low-Risk Halloween Activities in Alexandria

By James Cullum

The annual Lee Street gathering with trick-or-treaters isn’t happening this Halloween, and the city is recommending low-risk activities.

“While the spread of COVID-19 remains a threat, residents are encouraged to find safe ways to enjoy Halloween and Dia de los Muertos,” according to the city.

The city is recommending the following events low-risk events for Saturday, October 31.

  • Del Ray Halloween Traditions – With the annual parade canceled due to COVID-19, residents can participate in a number of Halloween-themed contests online, including house decorating, group or pet costumes, and a scavenger hunt.
  • West End Drive-Thru Trunk-or-Treat – Families can dress in costumes while remaining in vehicles to drive through the Shiloh Baptist parking lot to receive pre-bagged treats.
  • Dia de los Muertos Virtual Requiem Concert – To remember the lives of those lost in the battle against COVID-19, the New Orchestra of Washington and Choral Arts will perform Brahms’ Requiem to embrace the spirit of celebrating, not mourning, the lives of those lost.
  • Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian Dia de los Muertos Virtual Weekend – Online live events that feature educational and celebration with traditional music, mask-making, paper marigold demonstrations (including links to download and make your own), a reading list for children, and opportunities to remember loved ones.

About the Author

  • Reporter James Cullum has spent nearly 20 years covering Northern Virginia. He began working with ALXnow in 2020, and has covered every story under the sun for the publication, from investigative stories to features and photo galleries. His work includes coverage of national and international situations, as well as from the White House, Capitol, Pentagon, Supreme Court and State Department. He's covered protests and riots throughout the U.S. (including the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol), in addition to earthquake-ridden Haiti, Western Sahara in North Africa and war-torn South Sudan. He has photographed presidents and other world leaders, celebrities and famous musicians, and excels under pressure.