Dowagiac families can take advantage of some sweet treats this Halloween during the designated trick-or-treat time from 6 to 7 p.m. Oct. 31.

Dowagiac’s City Council voted unanimously Monday evening to set the times and date for the fall festivity. City Manager Kevin Anderson said Halloween trick-or-treat times are often discussed in-depth prior to the season. In past years, the times have been adjusted or set on an unconventional date to better serve residents and families.

“Every year, we get more calls about trick-or-treat times more than anything else we ever get all year,” Anderson said.

Anderson said the setting of the one-hour time frame was a focus for city officials to keep the festivities in daylight hours as much as possible, while still allowing for parents to arrive home from work. Due toHalloween falling on a Wednesday this year, Anderson said the time of day and how long trick-or-treating could continue were a factor.

“It falls right smack in the middle of the week this year,” Anderson said. “For the safety of the kids, we decided on 6 to 7 p.m. on the 31st.”

Council member Bob Schuur said it was important to remind residents that, if they are participating in handing out candy, they should turn their porch lights on to indicate that children can come to their door.

“Some people choose not to do it or can’t always afford to hand out
something,” Schuur said.

City guidelines also suggests children be accompanied by a trusted adult, parent or guardian and they participate only within designated times.