Lake County Gazette

Children in Highland Park will be able to go trick-or-treating on October 31, with official hours set from 3:30 to 7:00 PM. The City of Highland Park Police Department is reminding families to discuss safety tips before heading out and recommends that residents turn on porch lights if they are welcoming trick-or-treaters.

The department has released a video featuring Officer White, who shares safety information for children and parents during the holiday. "The video above features Officer White sharing important safety information for trick-or-treaters and parents."

After Halloween, residents are encouraged to compost their pumpkins. Pumpkins can be placed with yard and kitchen waste as part of the city's curbside composting program, but all candles, wax, LED lights, and non-organic decorations should be removed first.

On November 7, the Park District of Highland Park will host its annual Pumpkin Smash at The Preserve of Highland Park from 4:30 to 6:00 PM. This event allows community members to bring both carved and uncarved pumpkins to be turned into soil while learning about sustainable practices. Registration is free and required for participation.

Additionally, the Solid Waste Agency of Lake County (SWALCO) will offer pumpkin composting events at several locations throughout Lake County until November 15. SWALCO’s main facility in Wauconda will continue accepting pumpkins through November.