In the year that has completely turned our worlds upside down, as the holidays approach we are faced with the question of how do we continue to celebrate? Depending on where you live, there may be restrictions in place that prevent you from your normal traditions or maybe you are choosing to be safer during this time.

For us, our annual traditions are definitely on hold this year. We typically host a neighborhood potluck where everyone can come together and share a meal before the kids head out trick-or-treating for the night. With potluck meals or large group gatherings not advised right now, we will have to press pause on our party until next year. But that definitely doesn’t mean we won’t find a way to celebrate the day. Here are some ways to incorporate some of the Halloween traditions in the year that is 2020.

1. Neighborhood “You”ve Been Boo’d” treats-If you haven’t tried this it is such a fun way to bring some cheer to your neighbors and brighten someone’s day while spreading some fun as well. The idea is simple. Start with two families and fill a treat basket with some fun goodies, or small toys. You can find free printables online that you can include with the basket that explain how it works and gives them a sign to place on their door so they don’t get “Boo’d” twice. This is a fun activity if you have new neighbors to welcome them into the community. If you are worried about the transfer of items between households, just keep them separate for a few days and then enjoy!
2. Decorate your house, inside and out. We usually use subtle decorations indoors but my husband likes to go big for Halloween outside. So, even if we aren’t hosting a party, we can still be festive and fun for the holiday.
3. Visit a local pumpkin patch-While masks may be required, nothing puts you in the Fall spirit like the traditional pumpkin patch.
4. Host a small get together for your kids or family members. My daughter and a few of her friends are planning their own little Halloween celebration complete with matching costumes, games, some Halloween movies, and a few treats. It will be small but we will still make the best of it.
5. Plan a fun meal to share as a family since it is a Saturday night. Some homemade soup or chili are always hits and with the day to cook, it is the perfect time to enjoy some comfort food. Or you can keep it simple and order pizza and relax.
6. Plan a baking day with your kids to create some fun alternative treats to enjoy if you are skipping the trick-or-treating.

However you choose to celebrate this year, remember that while this pandemic has taken so much of our normal lives away from us, we can always find ways to bring back some of our favorite traditions in safe ways.