Halloween has definitely become a new tradition that divides the nation.
We had the usual Halloween school discos as a child and watched films like ‘Hocus Pocus’. That was kind of it, though. We didn’t trick-or-treat or carve pumpkins.
Over the last few years, however, the UK has been hit stateside and overtaken by the new craze.
Supermarkets are full of decorations and sweeties, pumpkin patches are everywhere, and most households have some kind of fancy dress going on.
The kids seem to have bought into this new festival idea.
What if you’re still not a fan, though?
The big dilemma: trick or treating
While it might seem fun to do with the kids, it can be a very intimidating time for some people.
The elderly, in particular, may not want groups of people knocking on their door in disguise. They especially won’t like the idea of ‘tricks’ being played on them or their property.
It can also be an excuse for some to insight violence and commit criminal activity.
So it’s still something that parents must consider carefully before deciding whether to get involved.
Halloween ideas without trick or treating
If the kids are desperate to have some Halloween fun, but you don’t like trick-or-treating, why not just have some fun at home?
Here are some Halloween ideas:
- Decorate the inside of your house / the kids’ bedrooms
- Invite a few friends over and let them have a fancy dress party at home
- Have a spooky-themed tea with table decorations and paper plates etc.
- Make some fun food, such as hiding toy spiders in jelly
- Hide sweets around the house and let them go on a treasure hunt
- Watch Halloween movies that are age appropriate
- Make some Halloween crafts
- Bake and decorate Halloween biscuits or cupcakes
- Carve your own pumpkins
- Play games like apple bobbing in the garden
If you do want to go out trick or treating however, remember your Halloween etiquette:
- Always accompany children
- Don’t approach properties that look empty or have the lights are off
- Do not knock on the doors of strangers – only go to houses you know
- Only knock on houses with decorations outside
- Respect people’s property
- Stick to well-lit areas
- Remember road safety
- Never play tricks that are illegal (or cruel)
Stay safe!
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