Because Halloween will need to be celebrated differently this year to keep people safe, the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department has issued guidance on how to have fun in a manner that reduces the risk of spreading COVID-19.

Gatherings of people outside of the household are currently not permitted. Santa Barbara County is in the red tier, which means virus transmission remains substantial. The latest guidance on safely enjoying Halloween can be found here.

However, there are many ways to celebrate safely and creatively, including the countywide virtual Halloween costume parade that will feature photos of pets and children age 0-17 in costume. The virtual parade of costumes will stream on Saturday, Oct. 31 at CSB-TV cable channel 20, YouTube/CSBTV20 or FaceBook at “countyofsb.”

To be considered for airing in the virtual Halloween costume parade, email your photo(s) by Oct. 28, along with the following information to news@countyofsb.org:

First name(s) and age of those featured in the photo.
City or town of residence.
Full name of a legal parent or guardian with the words: “I authorize the attached photo(s) to be included in a broadcast on the County of Santa Barbara YouTube channel, website, and FaceBook.”

On Oct. 31, grab a seat and some snacks, sit back and enjoy a countywide virtual Halloween treat, all from the comfort and safety of your own home.