It’s Halloween and kids from the Niagara-on-the-Lake community and beyond are eager to hit the streets flaunting costumes in exchange for their coveted candy loot. But where are the best areas in NOTL for trick-or-treating?

As a small town with an average population aged 55 years old, it might seem as though Halloween would be low on the celebration radar for many residents  – but the number of trick-or-treaters each year, as well as the abundance of parties and events scheduled to celebrate the spooky evening show that’s simply not the case everywhere.

For those who aren’t into trick-or-treating, or who want to avoid the colder October nights, there are several local organizations hosting parties on Halloween night.

Two of NOTL’s fire hall’s are planning Halloween parties on Oct. 31. Both the St. Davids District 2 and Queenston District 4 fire station parties will begin at 7 p.m.

But if you are hitting the streets, some residents deem Chautauqua the go-to neighbourhood for candy collection. The large trees and close houses seep with character and offer an ambiance unlike any other in town.

NOTL resident Thomas Elltoft says that area is perfect for the younger crowd.

“Chautauqua is good for all ages, as the houses are close together. But children 10 and up may want more candy,” he said.

The area is popular, but it doesn’t tend to get as many trick-or-treaters. Residents in the area can expect about 40 to 50 kids throughout the night.

As for the older crowds looking to fill a pillowcase, Elltoft says Garrison Village or Homestead in Virgil are ideal because they tend to have more homes participating. In the bigger subdivisions, it isn’t uncommon for houses to set up their whole porches or garages as haunted houses.

The Homestead neighbourhood on Line 2 Road in Virgil offers a large, clean street with a seemingly endless line of houses, perfect for filling bags and buckets with treats.

Homestead resident Juan Munera has lived in the neighbourhood for more than 15 years, and trick-or-treating there has grown steadily, he says.

“Last year, there were more than 200 kids. They come from all places, not just the neighbourhood.”

It’s obvious people come from all over, he says, judging by the cars that line the streets. And he’s not bothered by the visiting trick-or-treaters. To him, kids finding the best spots is what Halloween is all about.

For those looking for another busy spot, Garrison Village offers just that.

The subdivision, with its closely-spaced houses and open streets, is the ideal setting for a diverse range of candy-seekers.