U.Va. Annual ‘Trick-or-Treating on the Lawn’ Event Set for Oct. 31

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, started by students in the late 1980s, is open to the community. Children are invited to dress up in 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. 

The event is hosted by the Lawn residents and receives additional support from the Office of Housing & Residence Life, Office of Emergency Preparedness, Parking & Transportation and the University Police Department. EMTs and a lost child station will be located on the south steps of the Rotunda and at Old Cabell Hall.

Allergen-free treats will be available for children and students with severe allergies in Room 1 West, said Elijah Innes-Wimsatt, head Lawn resident and a fourth-year student in the School of Engineering and Applied Science.

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.

Public restrooms are available nearby at the Rotunda, Old Cabell Hall, Alderman Library and Newcomb Hall. 

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 is available in the Central Grounds Parking Garage on Emmet Street.

— by Lauren Jones