When the Coronavirus first began to impact Americans in March, and we were under lockdown, we all had hoped our lives would return to normal by the Summertime. We were wrong; it is increasingly worse.
Story By Nisie G. Jimenez
Sadly, there have been almost 200,000 American lives lost as the virus spreads throughout the country. Many are beginning to realize the post-pandemic world is our “New normal,” but the many changes are not getting any easier. And as the “The Big Three” (Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas) begins to approach, it is clear our favorite holidays will also be interrupted by the pandemic. But, para me – I am not ready to give up Halloween.
Of course, Trick r Treating is too dangerous and completely defeats the purpose of remote learning for most children. But we can consider alternatives?
First, I understand the pandemic has left many families without jobs. The extra $600 a month in unemployment benefits are discontinued, so it is understandable Halloween might not be the priority. However, you would be surprised at what you can do with just $10 at the dollar store. While children can no longer go door- to door to Trick r Treat, this year, the parents can provide the treats while the neighbors give out the tricks! Families can dedicate a few dollars to decorate their front yards for Halloween. And, to those who don’t mind spending more, they can create a spooky scene to entertain families as they drive through the neighborhoods while eating their Halloween snacks. This year families can enjoy a “Haunted Car Ride” instead of the usual Trick r Treating tradition.
Altering Halloweens customs may seem outlandish to you, but it would not be the first time one of our favorite holidays changed forms. The Celtics first brought on the Halloween tradition as they feared Death awaited them in the harsh winter months. So, on October 31st, Celtics would leave out food and wine to appease the deadly spirits. By the Mid 1800s, Halloween Festivities became part of community celebration where neighbors would share food, drink spooky stories, and even play bobbing for apples. Back then, apples told women who their future husbands would be. When the Irish came to the United in 1846, they brought the fun Halloween tradition of dressing up in costume and going house to house for food and money. Of course, the Irish tradition would evolve to Trick r Treating where children dressed in their favorite costumes go to neighboring houses for some free candy. Families often enjoy Haunted Hayrides and Haunted attractions. Haunted Houses are becoming a tradition on their own as they become more horrifying and intricate every year.
Halloween is not a religious holiday or federal holiday, but it would be sad to let it go. Halloween represents a childhood that we can all hold onto for at least one night a year, and it brings the community together despite any differences. If these safe alternatives are not appealing, I hope others can think of other ways to keep the Hallows Eve Spirit alive.
Sources:
The History of Halloween
History.com Staff
History.com
October, 2009
http://www.history.com/topics/halloween/history-of-halloween
October 11, 2017
A&E Network