Some believe Halloween started as a Celtic pagan holiday, others believe it has early Christian roots. But there is no doubt that it began as an occasion to remember and honor the dead.
The meaning of the holiday and how it is recognized has changed over the centuries, but it is one of the most celebrated holidays in the U.S. today. Whatever Halloween means to you, here are a few different ways to recognize it.
Dress up and go trick-or-treating … with the kids, of course
Going door to door in costume and soliciting something edible is practiced in several cultures and dates back to medieval times. Pets often come along, prompting thoughtful neighbors to dole out dog treats in addition to candy ones. Be on the lookout for Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton masks this year.
Throw or attend a costume party
Dressing up in a detailed costume or as a favorite character is no longer just child’s play. Get in on the fun at a Halloween costume party and have a “best/worst costume” contest. It can be fun to see how creative you or your fellow guests can get.
Take a hayride
If trick-or-treating isn’t your thing but you’d still like to get out and enjoy the crisp October air, consider a hayride. It can be something romantic to do with a loved one or just another type of social gathering. They’re often scenic rides that sometimes stop off in a pumpkin patch or apple orchard so riders can bring back a souvenir.
Go pumpkin picking or apple picking
This is another great activity to do with kids. Collect fruit to bake fresh in pies or simply to eat. Find the perfect pumpkin to carve or draw a face on, or to decorate a dining room table. A produce lesson for the kids as well as some fresh air and some exercise, this is a fall activity the whole family can get involved in.
Visit a haunted house
More adventurous types might like to get a group together for a haunted house tour. Amusement parks often promote walks or rides through haunted houses or promote haunted hay rides around this time of year. Various cities sometimes have a historic house or building or hospital rumored to be inhabited by a ghost or spirit that opens for seasonal tourism, as well.
Watch some scary movies
Want to keep in the spirit of Halloween without leaving the house? Simply turn on the TV or your computer. Networks and movie channels often run scary movie marathons around Halloween, or you can download your favorites on a service like Netflix.
