A Not-So-Spooky Halloween Commute

Halloween is a holiday like none other with pumpkins, spooky decorations, changing leaves, and the highly anticipated tradition of trick or treating. Trick or treating in Watertown comes as a beloved activity entailing fun costumes and endless candy, however, sometimes it’s more haunting side is forgotten: the commute. With young kids, school nights and candy highs, bearing a long, worrisome commute isn’t ideal. Lucky for parents, big siblings, and chaperones, there are many ways to make this year’s Halloween commute not so scary!

Have a Happy Halloween Commute

Walking is the Best Option

Walking to your trick or treat destination is ideal on Halloween night. Make sure to walk on sidewalks whenever possible or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe. Consider fastening reflective tape to costumes and bags to help drivers see you and of course, don’t forget to bring a flashlight and WALK (don’t run) from house to house.

If You Must Drive, Carpool with Friends

Worried about finding the perfect candy route? Join your neighbor or local friend to track down the best candy jackpots. If you find yourself having to drive to your trick or treat destination this Halloween, try riding along with another family. In addition to companionship, carpooling aids to reduce traffic, making your trick or treat commute as efficient and stress-free as possible. 

Telecommute

Telecommuting allows you to skip the stress of after-work traffic. If you choose to work from home on the day of Halloween, you can be ready to go as soon as the sun goes down. As an added bonus, this strategy helps lower traffic for those who can’t skip their commute!

Take Public Transit

If walking to your trick or treat destination is not feasible, Public transit is a great car-free option and a great way to put the driving in someone else’s hands. Explore the area and hunt the best candy in costume while riding your local train, bus, or subway. 

Rest the Night Before

Between walking on foot, excited kids, and driving in the dark, Halloween can be both a nerve-wracking and exhausting night. Having enough energy to get through the night safely is crucial to face wondering children in the streets, avoid drowsiness at the wheel, and ditch overall crankiness. To be your most alert and upbeat, ensure a good night’s sleep the night before trick or treating. Additionally, taking it slow and having a cup of coffee are other ways to keep the pep in your step.

Spooktacular Fun Around Watertown

In addition to the traditional trick-or-treating, Watertown also has an array of public and private events going on throughout the Town. Be sure to check your public transit options using the MBTA’s Trip Planner for getting to and from your frightful festivities.

2019 Watertown Halloween events and how public transit can get you there:

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