I don’t know about you, but I love Halloween. Actually, love might even be an understatement. Fall is my favorite time of the year and Halloween is my favorite day. It’s the time of year that celebrates all of the things that I like already. Horror, blood, and bones are on full display (calm down…I’m a scientist who wants to be a doctor, it’s basically required to have a little morbid interest in blood and guts) and everyone agrees that creepy decor is cool. As I get older however, it becomes more and more obvious that many of those around me are celebrating Halloween with cocktails and bars. Perhaps it’s the fact that Halloween rarely falls on a Saturday or because the end of October in Michigan is usually freezing, but I find myself looking for other ways to celebrate my favorite day that don’t include bar hopping. If you’re like me, here are five ways to celebrate Halloween without going out.
- Go to a Haunted House
Now technically, this option does require you to leave the house, but consider spending the evening at a haunted house. There are lots of haunted attractions in the month of October and one Google search will have lots of options. Pro tip: go to a haunted attraction with someone you’re attracted to…it’s a great opportunity to grab their hand.
- See a horror movie
With the cold and unpredictable weather, maybe you’d prefer to be indoors. If that’s the case, look no further than the Big Screen. Consider celebrating Halloween by watchng a horror movie. This idea is kind of a two for one, it can be done by checking out your local movie theater or by going to a movie theater you’ve never been to for extra suspense.
- Have an at-home movie night
Whether you’d prefer a movie under a blanket, in the comfort of your own home, or maybe just don’t feel like getting dressed and making the trek to the car, try celebrating with an at-home movie night. Watch a scary movie curled in on the couch. Watch your favorite childhood Halloween film. Stream the Halloween themed episodes of your favorite shows. Or, do all three!
- Do a spooky craft
If you aren’t a fan of the scarier parts of Halloween, try doing a spooky (or not so spooky) craft. This can be whatever you can imagine, drawing, sewing, painting, the possibilities are endless and there are tons of crafting ideas online. If you are spending the day with kids, this could be a great way to spend time together and it can be tailored to any age or ability.
- Stage a photoshoot
Perhaps you love costumes and the idea of getting all dolled up. Is the best part of a night out for you the mini photoshoot that comes with it? Then get your friends, get your costumes, get your camera, and stage a Halloween photoshoot! Who said you have to go out to take great pictures with your friends? This can be as extravagant or as simple as you prefer and either way it will give you memories to last until next Halloween.
What did I miss? Do you have Halloween traditions or ways to celebrate arguably the best day of the year? In the wise words of my high school orchestra director, however you celebrate, be safe. Happy Halloween!