The original item was published from September 16, 2020 10:24 AM to September 23, 2021 3:43 PM
Geneva’s Downtown Trick-or-Treating has been canceled to prevent the spread of COVID-19. But the family can still enjoy the colors of fall, eat a caramel apple, and sip a pumpkin latte during the second annual self-guided Jack-O’-Lantern Walk.

Mark your calendar: Geneva’s Autumn Fest will take place from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2, and local merchants have created a safe way to celebrate the season.

Participating businesses will display glowing Jack-O’-Lanterns in their windows or outside their doors, or you can find them all marked on a phone-friendly digital map. Unique pumpkins will be waiting to greet explorers all over Geneva’s downtown. You can vote for your favorite in the categories of "most creative," "most spooky," and "best group." To date, 50 businesses are participating with their very own Great Pumpkin to delight and surprise you.

To add to the fun, a fall-themed photo op will be on display at the Kane County Courthouse lawn at 100 S. Third St., where you can cast your vote. Special consideration will been given to provide a safe environment on the Courthouse lawn.

While you are on your pumpkin expedition, you may want to do a little shopping. Participating merchants will be a leafer’s paradise with fall decor, treats, in-store specials and/or new fall arrivals. Stop for dinner before or after your walk to take advantage of the food and drink menu specials offered by participating restaurants. Outdoor seating will be available at many Geneva establishments.

Stay tuned for more details on Autumn Fest by following @AutumnFestGeneva on Instagram. If you’d like to show-off your costume and have a chance to win a prize on Halloween, watch for an announcement about an Instagram contest. For the latest news on First Fridays and other activities in downtown Geneva, you can also follow Experience Geneva IL on Facebook.

Geneva’s downtown businesses are preparing for a fabulous fall kick off and together they will make the evening a special memory for the whole family.