Trick or Treating in the Concrete Jungle: A New York Minute Guide
So, you wanna know about trick-or-treating in NYC? Well, buckle up, buttercup, because this ain't your average suburban Halloween. It's more like a Halloween heist in a concrete jungle.
Dusk Till Dawn (Or Whenever You Feel Like It)
First off, let’s talk timing. Unlike the suburbs where the sun sets and kids swarm the streets like zombies, NYC trick-or-treating is a more relaxed affair. You can start whenever you feel like it. Some people like to get a head start around 5 PM, while others prefer to wait until the real darkness sets in. Just remember, the later you start, the more likely you'll encounter adults in costumes who are way more interested in their candy haul than yours.
Where’s the Candy, Waldo?
Finding houses that actually give out candy in NYC is like finding a needle in a haystack, but with more sugar. Your best bet is to hit up the brownstone neighborhoods in Brooklyn or Queens. These places are like candy goldmines. But beware, even in these candy-laden areas, you might encounter the dreaded "We're Out" sign. It's a harsh reality, but it happens.
Building Battles: The Great Candy Caper
Living in an apartment building? Well, you're in for a treat (or trick). Some buildings organize their own mini-Halloween events, where you can hit up your neighbors' apartments. It's like a condensed version of trick-or-treating, without the cold, hard concrete. But if your building isn't into that, you might have to brave the outside world.
Safety First, Candy Second
Remember, NYC is a big city, and big cities can be scary, even on Halloween. So, keep an eye on your surroundings, stick with a group, and don't eat candy from strangers. Unless, of course, you know the stranger. Or they're offering you a Snickers. Those are the rules, right?
Bonus Tip: The Costume Conundrum
In NYC, your costume has to be next level. You can't just show up as a ghost or a witch. You need to think outside the box. Maybe a pizza slice, a hot dog, or even a giant pigeon? Just make sure you can still eat candy while wearing it.
How To’s of NYC Trick-or-Treating
- How to find houses that give out candy: Check out brownstone neighborhoods in Brooklyn or Queens.
- How to survive an apartment building Halloween: Participate in building events or brave the outside world.
- How to impress with your costume: Think outside the box and choose something unique to NYC.
- How to stay safe: Stick with a group, be aware of your surroundings, and don't eat candy from strangers.
- How to maximize your candy haul: Start early, hit the right neighborhoods, and be prepared to face disappointment.