It does not appear COVID-19 will stop Halloween in Vicksburg and Warren County.

Mayor George Flaggs Jr. said Wednesday he wants the fall holiday to be observed in the city.

“We’re still going to have it but we’re going to ask everybody to not have indoor parties but do outdoor activities; go outside so you can practice social distancing and wear masks,” he said.

Flaggs said he will issue an order concerning Halloween at Monday’s meeting of the Board of Mayor and Aldermen. The order will set the time for trick-or-treating as 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Oct. 31. The Warren County Board of Supervisors, who also meet Monday, are expected to set the same times.

“We’re going to do anything that’s on the outside and we’re encouraging them (families) to do things like trunk-or-treat; to enjoy themselves,” Flaggs said.

Warren County Sheriff Martin Pace said even though the Warren County Board of Supervisors is set to take up the issue during their meeting Monday, “there is no reason to believe that the county would observe any different times.”

“City and county officials have worked together for many years to make sure that we observe consistent hours and provide adequate law enforcement on the streets to ensure the safety of our children,” Pace said.

About John Surratt

John Surratt is a graduate of Louisiana State University with a degree in general studies. He has worked as an editor, reporter and photographer for newspapers in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. He has been a member of The Vicksburg Post staff since 2011 and covers city government. He and his wife attend St. Paul Catholic Church and he is a member of the Port City Kiwanis Club.

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