October 7, 2011 — U.Va.'s trick-or-treating tradition, initiated in the late 1980s by students, will be held Oct. 31 from 4 to 6 p.m. and is open to all local community members. Children are invited to wear their 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 Residence Life, the Office of Emergency Preparedness and Newcomb Hall.

Allergen-free treats will be available for children and students with severe allergies in Room 1 West, said Reedy Swanson, head Lawn resident and a fourth-year student in the College of Arts & Sciences.

In addition to trick-or-treating, families will have the opportunity to enjoy other activities, such as pumpkin decorating on the South 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 in an effort to raise funds for Autism Speaks U.

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.

The Lawn community expects hundreds of children to participate in the festivities and encourages University students to attend, too, Swanson said. "We are excited to welcome everyone to the Lawn for an event that can bring together the University and the wider community."