Halloween is fast approaching, and families across Springfield are eager to know when and where they can enjoy safe, fun trick‑or‑treating and spooky attractions. Below is a detailed guide to the official trick‑or‑treat hours for neighborhoods and a curated list of haunted houses in the surrounding area. Organizers who are missing from this list are encouraged to email Capitol City Now with their details.

Trick‑or‑Treat Hours

All listed times are for Halloween night, October 31, unless otherwise noted.

• Springfield: 4:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
• Rochester: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (both Friday, October 3 and Saturday, October 31)
• Petersburg: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
• Chatham: 4:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
• Jacksonville: Dusk – 9:00 p.m.
• Auburn: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (both Friday, October 30 and Saturday, October 31)

Haunted House Attractions

For families seeking a thrill beyond neighborhood door‑to‑door candy, the following haunted houses offer a range of experiences, from classic scare mazes to immersive themed environments. Each entry includes a website or contact link for hours, ticket information, and directions.

• Boo Crew Haunted House – 11083 Buckhart Rd., Mechanicsburg, IL. boocrew.com
• Terror on the Square – 119 S. 7th St., Petersburg, IL. Visit terroronthesquare.com for times.
• Terror on Washington Street – 513 E. Washington St., Clinton, IL. Tickets and details at clintonhauntedhouse.com.
• Mt. Auburn Haunted Woods of Creek Hill – 3078 County Rd 1550 E., Mount Auburn, IL. Operating since 2011; see hauntedwoodsofcreekhill.com for schedules.
• YMCA’s Spooky Trails Wicked Forest – 6602 Iron Bridge Rd., Springfield, IL (YMCA Camp Wa‑Kon‑Tah). Click the link on the original article for more information.

These attractions are family‑friendly in the sense that they provide clear age guidelines and safety measures, but parents should review each venue’s recommended age range and any health advisories before attending.

Tips for a Safe Halloween

Local law enforcement reminds residents to keep costumes visible, use flashlights or reflective gear, and stay within well‑lit neighborhoods. Parents are encouraged to accompany younger children and to check that candy is sealed before consumption. For any concerns about crowding or traffic, contact the Springfield Police Department’s non‑emergency line.

Enjoy a blessed and joyful Halloween season, and may your community experience a night of fun, fellowship, and safe celebrations.

Original reporting: Capitol City Now (WTAX 1240 Springfield) — read the source article.