Have you ever noticed that most people have a really strong opinion about Halloween? They either love it or hate it. I’m in the love column on this one for sure. I’ve always been a big fan of this spooky holiday from the time I was little until the present day.
I remember getting bundled up to go trick-or-treating in my neighborhood as a kid. I can clearly recall the walk up and down my street; it seemed so long, but the haul of candy we got was well worth it. The costumes were kind of cheesy back then; nothing like the ones kids have today. We didn’t mind it though.
When I got a little older, I acquired wonderful memories of going out in college and in Miami to costume parties and other events dressed as an angel or demon. We’d dance around in our costumes and go through spooky mazes. This fun continued for years.
Then, of course, there are the happy memories of my own children excitedly parading around in their costumes. There was the one year we all dressed up like Tootsie Rolls. Another year, we were ghosts, and others still where everyone did their own thing. We walked through the neighborhood, kids scooping up candy while the adults lagged behind having a party of their own.
Why do those of us who love Halloween love it so much? For starters, it gives us the opportunity to express our creativity. We can throw our crafty side into our costumes and decorations. It also has a lot to do with the sense of community associated with it. There are Halloween parties and events like the parade we have every year in our neighborhood.
Halloween also gives us a break from our normal routine and allows us to escape into the world of our alter egos. Some people just like Halloween because they like all things spooky and supernatural. Others enjoy it because of the nostalgic memories it brings. I am in this camp.
On the flip side, there are those who strongly dislike Halloween. One of the main reasons cited has to do with the commercialization of the holiday. And, since Halloween has become so popular, getting yourself, your house, and your family ready for it can bring on additional stress. For people who don’t like spooky or scary things, it can bring on a lot of anxiety as well.
Some cultural and religious beliefs also discourage the celebration of Halloween. Others still may have negative memories associated with the holiday, and don’t like to celebrate it for that reason. And certain people dislike wearing costumes and find dressing up uncomfortable. There are lots of reasons although I still believe that the good associated with Halloween outweighs the bad.
Whatever camp you’re in, here’s wishing you a safe and happy Halloween!