SOUTH RIVER–Break out your jack o’lanterns, lights and scary mannequins, the Department of Parks and Recreation is holding a Halloween House Decorating Contest on Oct. 31.
“With the new normal that we are living in today, social distancing is key, so I thought this was the best way to do so,” Parks and Recreation Director Lakisha Thomas said.
The last day for residents to register is Oct. 26 via the borough’s website.
“The judges will be myself, Councilman Peter Guindi and Parks and Recreation Coordinator Jason Oliveira. Also, with our new normal we have to think outside the box, so creativity is a huge factor,” Thomas said.
Thomas said judging will begin at 3 p.m. on Oct. 31 and all participants outside their homes must wear a mask as everyone continues to practice social distancing.
After each house is judged, Thomas said the first place winner will receive $75 gift card, the second place winner will receive a $50 gift card and the third place winner will receive a $25 gift card.
Thomas said the only rule is all participants must be residents of South River.
In related news, the department will also hold its Fishing Derby event on Oct. 17.
“There are two days a year a license is not required to fish, one day in June and the other is in October. We are working with the New Jersey Division of Wildlife so registration is open to non-residents as well as residents. Again, due to our new normal, complying with social distancing and masks are required, temperatures will be taken and a COVID-19 form will be completed.”
Thomas said the deadline to register is Oct. 15.
To register for either event, visit southrivernj.org, or email Lakisha Thomas at Lthomas@southrivernj.org.
Contact Vashti Harris at vharris@newspapermediagroup.com.
