Halloween Trick-Or-Treat Hours, Curfew In Toms River

TOMS RIVER, NJ — Halloween brings with it talk of ghouls and goblins ... and of the fun of trick-or-treating and Mischief Night.

Toms River has the unusual tradition of holding its trick-or-treating on Oct. 30 — a tradition that resulted from the popularity of the Toms River Fire Company 1 Halloween Parade.

The parade, which is marking its 84th year in 2023, draws hundreds of participants and spectators, with dozens of youth groups — from Little League to dance schools to Scout groups, and marching bands from Toms River's schools.

Moving trick-or-treat to Oct. 30 allows children to experience both events, and has been done by agreement between township officials and the fire company.

With that in mind, Toms River Police Chief Mitch Little is reminding motorists to be alert on Monday to children out on the streets trick-or-treating.

"Be on the alert for excited youngsters, whose vision may be obstructed by masks, darting out into traffic," Little said.

There is no official curfew in Toms River, but all trick-or-treaters will be asked to be off township streets by 9 p.m.

"Our utmost concern is for the safety and well-being of our residents and the children enjoying the holiday. The Toms River Police Department wishes you a safe and Happy Halloween!" Little said.

Parents and guardians are reminded of these safety tips:

• Accompany young children in the neighborhood and identify your surroundings.
• Teach your children to look both ways before crossing the street.
• Only approach homes that have a porch light on.
• Never enter a stranger's home or a vehicle for any treats.
• Stay on sidewalks.

Parents are reminded to check their children's candy for foreign substances and choking hazards.