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The Dos and Don’ts of Halloween at Duke

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Duke chapter.

Whether you’re a newbie navigating the holidays spent at Duke for the first time, or a junior like myself trying to figure out what you’re going to do this year to make it the best Halloween yet, the options of participating in this spooky celebration are practically endless, with a few must dos and must don’ts.

1. Do hang out with friends

Whether you’re carving pumpkins, hitting up Franklin Street in the group costume you and your squad have been preparing since last October, exploring a haunted corn maze, or just sitting back and enjoying Netflix’s extensive selection of horror films, do it with friends. Holidays are an excuse to take a break, so use it to catch up!

2. Don’t spend tons of money on a costume you’ll only wear once

There are so many costumes that can be easily put together with clothes you already own, and if you want to do something more outrageous, hitting up the thrift store is a fun and cheap way to have something unique!

3. Do document your seasonal activities

With all of the fun fall activities you’ll be doing around Halloween, the photo ops will be endless! Update your Snap Story, your Insta, heck even your profile pic! Your followers will find your posts both relatable and adorable; plus, you have a great excuse to look fun and exciting when you pop up in your crush’s news feed.

4. Don’t ruin the fun by wearing an insensitive costume

Keep in mind that Halloween is a time to step out of your comfort zone and stand out for your creative ideas. Don’t ruin what should be a great night by wearing something that makes your friends or peers uncomfortable. There are plenty of outfits you can choose that don’t poke fun at someone’s culture.

5. Do have fun though

It’s easy to get caught up in midterm season, or summer plans application season, or all the things that make Duke the busy place it is, but it’s important to balance your time so you have time to enjoy all the uniquely fun opportunities that come out of October. After all, it won’t be long before Christmas takes over, and you will have missed the spooky season entirely.

6. But don’t have too much fun

Despite what Dwight may think, there can be such a thing as too much fun. It’s important to take some time to relax, but don’t forget about your responsibilities. Enjoying Halloweekend to the fullest extent is great as long as it won’t lead to any regrets the next morning. Have fun, but stay safe!

7. Do appease your candy craving

The first week of November includes the biggest sale on candy until February 15, 2017. Don’t miss out on the deals. Grab your friends and buy up enough Hershey’s Kisses to last you through the winter.

8. Finally, don’t let the clowns get ya down

Be mindful, but don’t let the fear of running into a clown keep your squad indoors. Go to Shoots. Try out Franklin Street. Hit up that haunted house. Whatever you do, have a happy Halloween Dukies!

I am a senior at Duke University studying psychology and history, and I have been writing with Her Campus since I was a freshman. Having this incredible community of empowering women to build me up when I need support and to give me an outlet when I need to vent has been one of the greatest aspects of my Duke career! I am so sad to leave them soon, but I am excited to pursue my J.D. at Georgetown in the fall!