NATCHEZ — Those easily frightened should stay away from downtown Natchez Saturday as ghost, goblins and ghouls take over the streets.

Natchez Downtown Development Association is once again sponsoring their Little Feet Trick or Treat event aimed at giving the Miss-Lou’s youngsters a fun and safe place to have Halloween fun.

Little Feet Trick or Treat is Saturday from 5 to 6:30 p.m. NDDA Director Mease Banks said more than 30 downtown merchants will be giving out candy.

“The merchants and the public are both very excited about this event,” Banks said.

Franklin, Main and Commerce streets will be blocked off to give trick-or-treaters a safe area to gather goodies.

“Everyone is invited,” Banks said. “Parents can feel safe about bringing their children down here and trick-or-treating with them. It is a family centered event where you will see a lot of people you know and get to meet a lot of the merchants.”

Merchants will have their doors open to welcome children in and some will even be waiting outside for eager youngsters.

“Everyone is encouraged to dress up,” Banks said. “The merchants are excited about and some will go all out with costumes. Even I’m planning on dressing up. It’s a fun time for everyone.”

Along with Little Feet Trick or Treat, NDDA is sponsoring a window decorating contest that gives downtown businesses the chance to show of their creativity. Banks said so far the response has been positive for both window decorating and the trick or treating.

“I have had a lot of fun with it and some of the businesses are going all out,” Banks said. “Last year, there was a great turn out and this year we are expecting even better.”

While Banks said Little Feat Trick or Treat is a safe environment for candy gathering, parents and youngsters still need to be cautious.

Natchez Police Chief Mike Mullins said parents need to take time before Halloween night to talk to their children about staying safe during trick-or-treating.

Mullins said a good rule of thumb is to have young children off the streets before dark and to give them a flashlight.

“When children run ahead of their parents, cars can’t always see them and they can’t always see where they are going,” Mullins said. “It is just good for them to use a flashlight.”

He also suggested children wear reflective costumes or attach reflective material to costumes and making sure children are supervised by adults.

“It is important to really watch the younger children to keep them safe,” Mullins said. “We haven’t had a serious Halloween accident in my career that I can remember, and we want it to stay that way.”