Springfield residents say they will participate in Beggar’s Night

Credit: Bill Lackey

Credit: Bill Lackey

Springfield residents plan to participate in Beggar’s Night , according to an informal survey by the News-Sun.

“I think it is great that the city of Springfield is letting the children go trick-or-treating," Kelly Maynard, a Springfield resident said. “The children haven’t been able to do much this year because of COVID-19."

Most of the Springfield residents that responded to the News-Sun’s online survey said their families will participate in Beggar’s Night, scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 31.

“I know Beggar’s Night is exciting for the children and parents. We all need to have patience and take our time visiting houses. Children need to stay with their groups. Anyone feeling sick should stay home. If everyone sticks to the guidelines, Beggar’s Night should still be fun,” Sarah Chapman, a Springfield resident said.

Some residents said they are not taking their children trick-or-treating or passing out candy and suggested others should celebrate Halloween by doing something fun at home.

“I think it’s irresponsible to have Beggar’s Night during a pandemic. We could go one year without it,” Ashlea Leandro said. “Stay home! Spend time with your kids. Have a fun treat and watch scary movies. It’s ONE year.”

Over half of the residents that said they are participating in Beggar’s Night by trick-or-treating said they are not passing out candy.

Clark County Sheriff Deborah Burchett previously told the News-Sun that residents are encouraged to leave their porch lights off if they are not passing out candy - so children do not come to their doors.

On Sept. 21, Burchett announced that Clark County would have Beggar’s Night on Oct. 31 after Gov. Mike DeWine said in early September that trick-or-treating decisions would be left in the hands of local communities.

“We are advising everybody to try to go along with the health department’s rules and regulations that they have put into effect,” Burchett said. “Hopefully everybody goes out and has a good time, but yet a safe time.”

About the Author