Scare in the Square 2020 gives kids trick-or-treat opportunity

RAPID CITY, S.D. — Scare in the Square kicked off at noon on Halloween, and it was a hit.

Ghouls, goblins, and monsters lined the streets of downtown Rapid City in search of candy. Although a bit windy, the day was beautiful.

The Scare in the Square is downtown Rapid City’s outdoor Halloween celebration, and was a great time to get the kids out trick-or-treating before dark. Despite COVID-19, turnout was much higher than last year.

“It’s great to see so many people wanting to take an interest in what’s going on in downtown Rapid City,” said Ward 1 Representative Pat Johnson. “It’s also a little bit scary to see so many people out with everything going on, but people need to do what is going to keep them happy and safe and healthy, and a lot of people think this is a better option than trick-or-treating at night. So they’re down here, they’re celebrating, they’re dressed up, they’re having fun. And we need those things right now to keep us happy and sane.”

Stores had different methods for keeping people safe while passing out candy. Some handed out candy from buckets, others used tubes to keep kids distanced.

Jones praised Rapid City and the businesses that participated for putting on the event. He also said it was a boost for the city giving people a chance to visit new businesses.