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5 Ways to Safely Celebrate Fall/ Halloween during COVID

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

The fall season looks different this year due to COVID-19, which is a bummer for many people. There are many fun traditions placed on hold for the safety of everyone. Along with that, Halloween will be different too. Fortunately, there are great alternatives to celebrate the fall season out there, along with a safe way to celebrate the spooky season. Check out these five great activities to enjoy the fall season while staying safe!

Go Outdoors to See Fall Foliage!

Go outdoors to see the beauty of fall colors! If you live on the east coast, as I do, there are fall colors everywhere! Go out to a local park for a walk or hike along with colorful trees. Fall truly is one of the most beautiful seasons with its crisp air, breathtaking colors, and cozy vibes. I’ve also found that being outdoors is a great way to relax after a stressful week at school, especially with the midterm season in full swing. Remember to follow social distancing and mask regulations to stay safe, and if you can, check the location’s hourly activity levels so you can go at a less crowded time. 

Host a Halloween Night at Home!

Go all out with Halloween themed movies, snacks, and decorations! Watch a horror movie or a Halloween classic like Hocus Pocus. I’m taking the classic route (I refuse to watch horror movies) and doing a Halloweentown marathon! Make some fun, and easy Halloween treats like these Spooky Ghost Cookies, Reese’s Bats, or Halloween Candy Bark to snack on during the movie! To add to the Halloween theme, you could also totally carve or paint (arguably less messy) pumpkins! Depending on your specific situation, you could invite close friends (obviously, following COVID safety measures) or do this with your family. Either way, you can have an entertaining night in the safety of your home! 

Fall Baking Extravaganza!

I don’t know if you’re obsessed with everything pumpkin spice like me, but I’ll take any excuse to make and eat any pumpkin spice flavored treat. Staying at home is a perfect excuse to bake all the baked goods while perfecting your baking skills! Try baking a classic pumpkin bread or try something new and make this apple gingerbread cake with cream? Or maybe make these pumpkin chocolate chip cookies for a fall twist on a classic recipe (yes, I know another pumpkin recipe)? Or go for combining two traditional fall flavors with these Pumpkin Apple Streusel Muffins (pumpkin AND apple? Um, yes, please!). Baking at home is such a fun way to safely celebrate Fall (with the bonus of yummy treats)! 

Go Apple Picking or Visit a Pumpkin Patch!

Go to your local apple orchard or pumpkin patch for a fun fall-themed activity! These are great places to take photos too! Pick apples for a baking project or just for a healthy snack, and choose pumpkins for the perfect fall home decor or jack-o-lantern carving project. Apple picking and pumpkin patch visits are fall classics- you definitely can’t go wrong there! But, while having fun, remember to wear a mask and follow social distancing guidelines :). 

Fall Photo Shoot!

Have a fall photoshoot at home or outdoors! If you’re a frequent Instagrammer, this is the activity for you! Wear a cute fall outfit and find some fall-themed props like pumpkins and take photos at home! Or go to a local park, apple orchard, or pumpkin patch for next-level photos! This activity could be a fun one to do with close friends or family. And by now, I am repeating myself, but I can’t stress how important it is to wear a mask and social distance enough. 

There are so many ways to celebrate Fall and Halloween in safe and fun ways at home or outdoors! Stay safe and healthy!

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Pooja

NYU '23

Pooja is studying business at NYU. She is from the Philadelphia area and loves living in and exploring New York City! Pooja is passionate about fashion, sustainability, and wellness. Have any questions, comments, or suggestions? Or just want to chat? Reach out to her at pa1395@nyu.edu!
Senior at NYU studying English and Journalism. Big fan of conspiracy theories, superheroes, and good coffee.