The University of Virginia will host its annual "Trick-or-Treating on the Lawn" on Halloween, Oct. 31, from 4 to 6 p.m.

U.Va.’s trick-or-treating tradition, initiated by students in the late 1980s, is open to the local community. Children are invited to wear costumes and take part in trick-or-treating at each of the 54 Lawn rooms. Candy is donated and distributed by more than 70 student groups and other organizations.

The event is hosted by the Lawn residents and receives additional support from the Office of Housing and Residence Life and the Office of Emergency Preparedness. Staff members from RMC Events also will be on hand this year to help facilitate the smooth movement of trick-or-treaters and their parents around the Lawn. A lost-children station will be located on the south steps of the Rotunda.

Allergen-free treats will be available in Room 1 West for children and students with severe allergies, said fourth-year student Camrynn “Cammie” Genda, head Lawn resident.

In addition to trick-or-treating, families will have the opportunity to enjoy other activities on the lower Lawn hosted by the University Programs Council and Student Council. A Trick-or-Treat Festival in the McIntire Amphitheater, also running from 4 to 6 p.m., will feature a mix of recreational activities and performances by U.Va. student groups.

Free parking for families attending the event will be available beginning at 3:30 p.m. in the lots at Scott Stadium and University Hall and at 4 p.m. in the garage on Culbreth Road. Paid hourly parking will be available in the Central Grounds Parking Garage on Emmet Street.

Genda said the Lawn community looks forward to hundreds of children participating in the festivities and encourages University students to attend, too. “All of us on the Lawn are excited to welcome everyone to the Lawn for an event that can bring together the University and the wider community,” she said.