In an attempt to create a calmer Halloween environment than years past, public officials are once again urging that revelers stay “Home for Halloween”, as part of their campaign to keep Halloween street party celebrations out of the Castro.
“We just want to be clear that there will not be a street closure nor a Bay-Area event in San Francisco’s Castro District,” said Bevan Dufty, San Francisco Supervisor for District 8, which includes the Castro.
“There are many wonderful and safe events happening in San Francisco neighborhoods and throughout the Bay Area. So, once again, we’re encouraging people to celebrate Halloween in their own home neighborhoods and cities. The Castro, while open for business, will not be closed for a street party.”
The campaign was created four years ago after years of escalating Castro Halloween violence culminated in a shooting that injured 9 people. The goal: to keep the small, generally safe Castro neighborhood from being overwhelmed by the ruckus of Halloween, and prevent similar, violent, incidents.
Their website lists alternate events in the Bay Area on Halloween evening and asks for residents’ submissions, as well provides transportation and public safety information for the night of the 31st.
“Above all, this is a public safety campaign,” says Dufty. “For those people who would come into the Castro – or any part of the City – with bad intentions and exhibiting bad behavior, the message is very clear: please stay home for Halloween.”
