Tuesday night ghouls, goblins and ghosts will be descending on residences across the region.

No cause for alarm however, they have until 9 p.m. to go back where they came from.

Halloween is upon us again and local officials have set guidelines for trick-or-treaters to help ensure a safe night of goodie gathering.

In an attempt to reduce the possibility of misconduct from individuals looking to capitalize on the opportunity to don masks and costumes, as well ensure safe candy hunting for children, trick-or-treaters will have a three to four hour window to paint the town red, or pumpkin orange.

The following is a list of trick-or-treat hours for the region’s various municipalities:

Northampton County; Jackson, Conway and Rich Square; 6-8p.m. children should be 12 and under and accompanied by an adult.

Bertie County; Windsor, Powellsville, Lewiston-Woodville 5-8p.m., Colerain 6-8 p.m.; 12 and under accompanied by adult.

Hertford County; Ahoskie, Winton, Harrellsville, Murfreesboro, Como; 6-9 p.m.; 12 and under accompanied by an adult.

Ahoskie Police Chief Troy Fitzhugh said there will be a Halloween Festival at the Ahoskie Town Gymnasium from 6-8 p.m.

The police will block off Colony Ave., across from the gym to facilitate parking for festival attendees.

Town Councilman Ronald Gatling will be in charge of the event.

Fitzhugh said he is hoping for an happy Halloween for all the trick-or-treaters.

&uot;We want everyone to have a safe and happy Halloween,&uot; Fitzhugh said. &uot;We want everyone to enjoy themselves and avoid unnecessary injuries.&uot;

For more information please call your local town administrator.