Like many other things, Halloween in the COVID-19 era will look a little different this year. Everything from virtual Halloween parties to kids socially-distanced trick-or-treating, this year’s holiday will feel a bit off. Many people might opt to celebrate Halloween from home this year or over video—which will certainly be a unique experience.
That doesn’t mean the show can’t go on however, there are still many ways to celebrate this year’s spooky night from the comfort of your couch. Here are some of our favorite ways to get in the Halloween spirit right from home!
1. Have a scary movie marathon
If there has ever been a year to have a movie marathon in your living room, it would be in 2020. Scary movies are classic staples of Halloween-time. With the weather getting cooler and more people staying inside, having a marathon of your favorite horror films can help revive some of the Halloween spirit.
Go all out! Invest in the experience of the marathon. Be sure to pick out your favorite scary movies (refer here for some inspiration to get you started), and create an atmosphere by dimming the lights, grabbing some popcorn, and turning up the surround sound. Finish up by cozying up your couches with blankets and pillows and you’re in store for an hours-long marathon!
2. Try out a new spooky recipe
No holiday is complete without a little food and drink and Halloween in particular is all about treating yourself with sweets. One idea to try out this year is experimenting with new Halloween recipes you’ve been dying to try. Whether that be a new kind of frosted cookie, spooky-themed cupcakes, or autumn staples like candy apples and pumpkin pie, the possibilities are endless to get your bake on.
Don’t forget to show the drinks the same amount of love as well. Cocktails and mocktails are always fun to mix together, especially when there is a holiday theme. Research different recipes and concoct your own spooky cocktail to keep the good times going. Not to mention, to keep in theme with the rest of the night, you don’t even have to get off your couch to be able to get your cocktail supplies! With new online services, you can have your drink essentials delivered right to you. Between getting a costume and stocking up on candy, forgetting some of these supplies is all too common, but Halloween mixology prep can be a piece of cake when finding the right tools!
3. Add some final decor around the house
No home is truly a home without a little bit of personality and decor, and throughout Halloween, it’s important to add some fun around the house. If you’re a crafty person, look into some art projects to keep you occupied at home that can bring some festiveness and positivity to your living space.
While it’s important to spookify your interior, decorating the outside is fun too. If you haven’t painted or carved pumpkins yet, this can be a great Halloween activity to do or even adding lights, fog machines and props to your porch. Get creative with your decor and don’t forget to have fun with it!
4. Celebrate virtually
It seems like Zoom and FaceTime have been the life of the party over the past few months and entirety of quarantine, and the same holds true during Halloween time. Since in-person celebrations are still on hold for most people, celebrating with your friends online is the next best thing!
Some of our favorite ideas for a virtual get-together include a classic costume contest, playing online games with your friends, or even treating it as a happy hour to unwind. Check out this list too to get some ideas on how to spice up your Zoom call for the 31st!
Even in a time that isn’t quite normal, you must continue to adapt and try to make things feel ordinary. And while this Halloween won’t feel the same as all the previous, it doesn’t mean you can’t make the most out of the day. When it’s all said and done, remember to have fun, do what you can, and enjoy yourself. Happy Halloween!
