Traditions are at the heart of cherished memories, connecting us from the past to future generations. Whether it’s gathering the family for a delicious turkey on Thanksgiving, leaving cookies and milk for Santa Claus, or handing out candy on Halloween, these traditions evoke a deep sense of comfort and unity as we reflect on times gone by.
In the midst of the challenges presented by COVID-19, modern society faces the dilemma of continuing these beloved traditions under new circumstances. One holiday currently at the forefront of this issue is Halloween. This festive occasion is filled with an array of unique traditions that many of us have come to cherish.
Fortunately, there are still ways to celebrate some of our most popular Halloween customs safely, even in these trying times. Here is how you can enjoy Halloween while keeping health and safety in mind.
Trick or Treat!
The Halloween tradition of shouting “Trick or Treat” in exchange for candy undoubtedly ranks among the top five thoughts associated with this holiday. For kids, Halloween is filled with screams, laughter, and what feels like an endless supply of candy. Due to the ongoing pandemic, the CDC has classified this popular Halloween activity (going door to door for candy) as high-risk and strongly advises against it. If you choose to trick or treat, here are a few ways to participate safely.
Wear a mask! You might think, “My costume comes with one, so I must be all set.” Unfortunately, that’s not going to cut it. According to Dr. Melissa Held, if you plan on trick-or-treating, you need to wear a two-ply face mask. Additionally, she recommends incorporating hygienic practices, such as using hand sanitizer, between every stop. Practicing safe distancing and limiting group sizes are also advisable, but get the full list here.
Can’t Forget Haunted Houses!
Haunted houses can be intriguing since you’re paying someone to frighten you! However, if that’s your cup of tea, it can lead to some of the most memorable and amusing experiences to share with family or friends. The tradition of haunted houses has roots in 19th-century London and has become an integral part of Halloween celebrations. Yet, like many festive traditions, the pandemic has required us to rethink how we celebrate.
Were haunted houses your favorite aspect of Halloween? No problem! I have some creative ideas to help you orchestrate your own haunted house adventure! One suggestion is to elevate your Halloween decor with props. For instance, you can breathe life into your front door using simple materials you probably have at home: sheet wood, sharpies, and some paint!
Carving Pumpkins!
This tradition stems from an ancient Irish myth about a character known as Stingy Jack. According to the myth, Stingy Jack tricked the devil, and as a consequence, he was barred from both Heaven and Hell, leaving him as a wandering soul. The Irish began carving turnips to ward off his spirit, which later evolved into pumpkins after immigrants arrived in the United States.
Carving pumpkins is an enjoyable way to express creativity, especially with a festive Halloween twist. It’s natural to wonder if this tradition fell victim to the disruptions of 2020, but fortunately, pumpkin carving has proven to be a resilient custom! The CDC classifies pumpkin carving as a low-risk activity, making it a safe alternative for Halloween festivities. If you're tired of your usual designs and want to align with the unique 2020 vibe, explore these boo-tiful designs that are sure to impress your trick-or-treaters!