Halloween is one of the most celebrated holidays in the United States. In fact, many retailers report that Halloween themed items have sales rates second to only Christmas themes! For green living families, Halloween parties and festivities present green, eco-friendly challenges in an over-commercialized society. How can you keep the family in the spooky Halloween spirit and host a green Halloween party as well?
Choose a creative Halloween party venue. Try hosting the Halloween party outside at a local farm. Many pumpkin patches and fall produce farms make outdoor party spaces available for reservations–and the venue itself offers natural party décor and onsite activities such as corn mazes, hayrides, campfires and more. If hosting the party at home, create the party space outdoors or in one large, secluded area of the home to limit the amount of space requiring decorations.
Get creative with decorations and games. Look to nature for as many decorations as possible-and adjust the party theme accordingly. Use pumpkins, gourds, fall leaves, hay bales to create a simple fall party theme–or use your imagination to suit many of those same items to spookier themes. Plan ahead and purchase only decorations or party games that you can reuse or repurpose–or find an area crafter who sells themed Halloween décor or games made from local or recycled materials.
Host a paperless Halloween party. Paper party supplies often top party planning checklists-and while they are convenient, they are really unnecessary. Use electronic invitations and online party planning sites that allow guests to RSVP and even contribute to the party planning. Skip paper decorations and disposable plates and party cups by purchasing reusable ones instead. Reusable supplies initially seem more expensive–but, are much less costly in the long run if you are a frequent party host.
Buy local. Utilize only local food producers, small businesses and local service providers as you plan and host your green Halloween party. Seasonal, fall foods are readily available locally in most areas and there may be a number of crafters in your area creating unique Halloween themed items from recycled or repurposed materials. Buying local is a great way to support both the local economy and the environment.
Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. Each item on a Halloween party to-do list holds green friendly possibilities and alternatives. From invitations and decorations to food and party games–there are almost always greener alternatives. Consider each item carefully and evaluate ways to reduce, reuse or recycle every item on the planning checklist.
With planning, research, and a green friendly outlook, it is easy to host an environmentally friendly Halloween party. Skip the plastics, the party supply catalogs, and the hype-and use imagination, local or recycled materials, and creativity to host a party that friends, family and the environment will love.
Source:
Personal Experience