As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, it’s time to start thinking about one of America’s favorite holidays — Halloween! Whether you’re a Halloween enthusiast or just looking to join in the fun, here are six tips to get your whole family ready for a hauntingly good time:
- Plan your costumes early. Don’t wait until the last minute to decide on costumes. Get the family together and brainstorm ideas. You might choose a theme for the whole family or let everyone pick their own. Remember, Halloween costumes have come a long way since the holiday’s origins where people wore animal heads and skins to ward off ghosts!
- Decorate your home. Transform your house into a spooky haven. String up orange lights, hang fake cobwebs and place jack-o'-lanterns on your porch. Did you know that the tradition of carving pumpkins began in Ireland? They originally used turnips and potatoes before discovering pumpkins in the New World.
- Stock up on treats. Be prepared for trick-or-treaters by buying candy in advance. Choose a variety to cater to different tastes and allergies. Fun fact: trick-or-treating as we know it today didn’t become popular in the United States until the 1930s!
- Plan Halloween-themed activities. Get into the spirit with fun activities leading up to the big day. Watch family-friendly Halloween movies, visit a pumpkin patch or organize a Halloween craft night. You could even research local ghost stories to share — just keep it age-appropriate!
- Prioritize safety. Make sure costumes are visible in the dark by adding reflective tape or having kids carry glow sticks. Review street safety rules with children before they go trick-or-treating. For adults hosting parties, ensure your home is well-lit and free of tripping hazards.
- Embrace the history. Take some time to learn about Halloween’s rich history. Did you know that the holiday has roots in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, which marked the end of the harvest season? Sharing these historical tidbits can add depth to your celebrations and spark interesting conversations.
By following these tips, you'll be well-prepared for a fantastic Halloween celebration. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and create lasting memories with your family and friends. Happy haunting!
What are your tips and suggestions to prepare for Halloween? We always love to hear from you! Share your ideas with the Shop Talk community.
Did you know? 100 years of trick or treating
The first written mention of trick or treating in North America dates back to 1927 in Alberta, Canada, where children went “guising” — an old Scottish Halloween custom.