With a deadly virus still plaguing the country and Halloween approaching new questions are being posed as to what it means for the widely celebrated holiday. From haunted houses, to trick or treating, to corn mazes there are so many different ways to celebrate, and different regulations to follow.

Children and adults alike flood the streets going door to door asking for candy, but this year if they hope to do that they are asked to wear a mask and sanitize constantly. The Springfield- Greene County Health Department issued a statement advising that neighborhoods begin trick or treating at earlier times (especially for younger children), social distancing, and to avoid contact at all costs suggesting grab and go bags rather than a candy bowl. Trunk or treats are expected to have cars parked at least one parking space away from one another, as well as enforcing that guests socially distance and wear masks.

For most of us, our days of trick or treating are over, but the usual parties and haunted houses we attend may not be the best option. The health department is saying that haunted houses should not be attended and moved outside with possible. This also means that haunted corn mazes would be ok if proper precautions are taken (masks, distancing, etc.). They also are encouraging that indoor gatherings are moved outside and that masks are worn at all times.

This Halloween will look different in more ways than one. Hopes for a return to normalcy are high and this Halloween is just a reminder of the constant change in our world today due to the novel COVID-19. We are left with the question once again, will things ever return to the way they were?