Halloween Haunts: Best C-U Trick-or-Treat Neighborhoods

Every Halloween there is a great decision to be made. Where should one trick-or-treat? It’s a difficult decision that can have a major effect on the amount of candy you haul in. There are many factors to be considered when picking a location: proximity to home, candy quantity and type, décor (because Halloween decorations most definitely add to the fun) and safety.

“The O.D.”

Feeling a little adventurous? Orchard Downs is a much overlooked treasure trove when it comes to trick or treating. You find array of unique candy there, from Snickers to brands you don’t even know what language the label is in.
Many of the apartment buildings are decorated. It’s a fairly festive atmosphere. Signs are conveniently posted on the apartments that are participating in candy giving so you don’t have to worry about knocking on some stranger’s door who isn’t going to reward you with sugary confections.
It’s a very safe neighborhood and definitely family friendly. Here’s another tip in your candy collecting; the (ex) President of the University of Illinois’ house is by the intersection of Orchard and Florida. It’s been known to hand out full sized candy bars.

Beringer Commons

“Beringer Commons…king sized houses, king sized candy bars,” says Junior Kathleen Heinricher.
It’s a family friendly neighborhood, well lit, and very safe. There are always a lot of trick-or-treaters. Known for its bountiful supply of sweets, Beringer Commons is sure to leave you in candy coma if you don’t control yourself. if you’re looking for a more traditional Halloween experience Beringer Commons is definitely the way to go.

“The Professor’s Ghetto”

For a more eccentric Halloween experience check out West Urbana, specifically the state streets. The houses are older, a more antique style than many of the other neighborhoods in Urbana. When the houses are decked out with Halloween decorations and flickering streetlights, it sets a delightfully eerie scene.
“Crazy liberal families give you weird stuff like apples and popcorn,” says Arianna Valocchi, junior, “and the Opus Dei house is the jackpot for candy.”

Your Very Own Neighborhood!

You can have an adventure in your very own neighborhood. You know the area, you know the people! Find out what Halloween traditions take place around your house. Who knows maybe you’re next door neighbor makes a terrific Frankenstein!
“My neighborhood was the only place I went when I trick-or-treated,” comments Senior Rachel Shore, “I never felt like I would get jumped or molested.”
Sometimes you find the best memories in your own neighborhood.

This is by no means a comprehensive list of neighborhoods to trick or treat in, it based on personal experience and the accounts of others. Champaign-Urbana has a host of Halloween traditions all over town. Find your own trick-or-treat niche.