Halloween is now just days away and the City of Albany and Albany Police Department have set the official trick-or-treat hours for youngsters to be from 5 to 8 p.m. County residents are also urged to follow these hours for trick-or-treating.

All residents, city and county, that wish to invite the little ghosts and goblins to your door are asked to leave outside porch lights lit so parents will know which homes are welcoming the young visitors.

Since Halloween not only falls on a weekend this year, but on a Saturday night, it should be noted that local law enforcement will be out in force to try and make sure the event is not only fun, but safe for those who participate. Acts of vandalism or other illegal activity associated with Halloween will be prosecuted.

For the fourth year in a row now, the city is also offering–what is being called this year, “Boo Fest 2015.” This is again Halloween around the square, in honor of Aleigha, and will take place on Jefferson Street (southwest side of the courthouse), also between 5 and 8 p.m. this Saturday, October 31.

Participation is welcome to those who would like to set up and decorate a table or truck to pass out treats in a central location. The event is sponsored by the City of Albany and there is still time to reserve a space if you would like to participate. Call Melissa at city hall at 387-6011 for more information.

As is always the case, there are other events in Albany and Clinton County sponsored by churches and other organizations to make for a more safe and centralized location for children and parents around the Halloween season, being somewhat safe alternatives to actual trick-or-treating.

Check the Things To Do and church pages in this edition for such alternate Halloween events being planned.

Also, a separate article listing several Halloween safety tips for the young and old alike can be found in a separate article this week.

Have a fun and safe Halloween!!