NYC to host “largest-ever” car-free Trick-or-Streets events throughout October

NYC will host a record 160 car-free streets and plazas for Halloween and fall celebrations across the five boroughs as part of the annual Trick-or-Streets program, city officials announced on Wednesday.

The sweet-and-spooky events will take place in late October, with neighborhood streets and public plazas getting transformed into spooky spaces for trick-or-treating, games music and other fun fall activities. 

Cultural organizations, community groups and schools will take part in the seasonal celebrations. New this year, the Municipal Art Society of New York will offer guided walking tours focused on the history, architecture and public spaces in participating neighborhoods.

“New York City does Halloween like nowhere else, and this year we’re giving New Yorkers a better, spookier time than ever before. We’re opening up 160 streets and plazas for trick-or-treating, games, music and a whole lot of fun,” Mamdani said. “And the only cars you should see at Trick-or-Streets are the ones made of cardboard, powered by two legs and fueled by a lot of sugar.”

Approximately 75,000 pieces of candy will be given out at the Trick-or-Streets events this year, temporarily turning the Big Apple into the Big Candy Apple, courtesy of the NYC Department of Transportation (DOT).

“These events carry on the great work we do to use public space to bring entire neighborhoods together to share in the holiday spirit,” DOT Commissioner Mike Flynn said. “I thank our great partners and participants for always making this a fun and festive experience.” 

Where to enjoy car-free Trick-or-Streets events in October

Signature events throughout the month include: 

Brooklyn: Hillel Plaza
Thursday, Oct. 22, 2 – 6 p.m.
In partnership with Flatbush Nostrand Junction BID and J Ember Design

Staten Island: Water Street Open Street
Saturday, Oct. 24, 12 – 5 p.m.
In partnership with the Van Duzer Civic Association and NYC KidsFest

Queens: Austin Street Open Street
Sunday, Oct. 25, 2 – 5 p.m.
In partnership with Neighbors for a Safer Austin Street and Hive Public Space

Manhattan: Canal Open Street and Division Plaza
Wednesday, Oct. 28, 3 – 7 p.m.
In partnership with the Canal Street Merchants Association and Closed Frame Productions

Bronx: James Baldwin Plaza
Saturday, Oct. 31, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
In partnership with the James Baldwin Outdoor Learning Center and Orisha Wholeness

Street Lab will also produce Halloween events at several public schools across the city.

A full list of Trick-or-Streets events is now available at nyc.gov/trickorstreets.