Going door to door for trick or treating isn’t as popular as it used to be for safety reasons. Luckily,there are many ways to celebrate the new autumn. I’ve gathered a few ideals for you to pick through as you plan your holiday.
Whether or not you have a home church, you’ll be welcomed with open arms for the festival of fall which is usually held on or around Halloween at many local congregations across the country. Those who attend wear traditional costumes or everyday attire. These events are free. You’ll find cake walks and other games you play for candy prizes. Fall festivals are designed to provide the community with a safe alternative to the stranger dangers associated with going door to door. A sign should be posted out front on church property advertising the fall festival as Halloween approaches.
Area fire stations in conjunction with city hall may hold Halloween parties free for all to attend. If your town doesn’t do this, check out other cities near by to see if they get the community together for October 31st. A couple of years ago we went to a haunted house set up by the fire department followed by a party with games and candy at the city hall. Just don’t assume that a haunted house hosted by your local government can’t be scary.City organizations work hard to break this stereo-typical perception.
You might try dressing the family up in their costumes and going out to eat at your favorite family friendly restaurant. Don’t worry, you’ll probably be served. You might visit the park before dark and let your children play in their costumes. It can be fun to take a walk through your neighborhood in your get-up or visit a neighbor who will get a kick out of your clown suit. Just get out and about with your camera to memorialize these wacky, family moments.
Throwing a party is an option. If your child was born around the thirty-first, you could throw a birthday party slash Halloween bash. You’ll have fun decorating, making snacks fit for ghosts and goblins and sending out invitations. Let your child help you. If you have a homeschool social group or co-op class you can have a Halloween party for the children and invite a few kids from public school too. Should you prefer smaller crowds and less preperation just light the jack o lantern, bake something festive and watch, It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown with your family. The spirit of a party isn’t judged by numbers.
If you know your neighbors, organize a Halloween block party. Each participating household hosts treats, games and other fun activities. Invited guests travel house to house for a variety of seasonal amusement. Make a list for each invited family so they know which houses are participating for courtesy and safety purposes. This is a fun and wholesome way to celebrate the fall festival.
If you own a business consider planning a Halloween party for customers and/or employees. Or you can
just give out candy through-out the day. Work within the company’s budget and keep it simple if need be. Whether you do a little or a lot, fun is fun.
If you stay at home or go out this year remember to follow the rules of safety and enjoy the fall festival traditions while making up a few of your own along the way.