Even though we’re eight months into dealing with a global pandemic, we’re still navigating many firsts and that includes Halloween. A few weeks ago, Dr. Hinshaw announced that Halloween is not cancelled but we still have to do our part to ensure a safe experience for all.
First things first, regardless of your current Halloween plans if you are isolating or feeling sick stay home, and do not hand out candy!
Celebrating Halloween Safely This Year
Masks & Costumes
The great thing about face masks is that there are many different styles available that can complement or even be the focus of your Halloween costume. From plain colours, fun prints, skeletons to animals, monsters to unicorns and more, the options are endless.
Regardless of if your costume incorporates a mask or not when social distancing is not possible your costume should allow for a mask to be worn safely and comfortably if needed.
Trick or Treating
This year we’ll be packing some quick snacks and of course hand sanitizer!
Generally, when we’re out trick or treating I’ll sneak myself and the kids a mini chocolate bar or two… but this year will look a lot different. To avoid the inevitable hangry, pack a granola bar or something equally easily accessible.
While it’s suggested that you avoid ringing doorbells and touching hard surfaces if it does happen the hand sanitizer will come in clutch.
And of course, once you get home before you dig into your candy, you’ll either need to disinfect it right away or leave it sitting for a few days…Who am I kidding? Go buy some Clorox wipes now.
Halloween at Home
If you’re skipping the trick or treating this year but still want to celebrate at home, there are still some great ways to celebrate Halloween which include:
- Dress up in your Halloween best and host a cohort Halloween party!
- Hide candy in your backyard and have a Halloween scavenger hunt.
- Host a Zoom pumpkin carving night
- Enjoy a Halloween movie marathon with your favourite movies!
Worried about having too much but still want your favourites? Visit the bulk areas of your local grocery or bulk barn to grab smaller amounts. This way you can still enjoy your favourites but won’t overindulge.
Handing Out Candy
It’s suggested that anyone handing out candy should do so while maintaining social distancing. If this is not an option, wearing a mask is a must!
This is also the year to get extra creative! Pre-packaging your candy a few days ahead of time, placing the candy on an outdoor table or another area that they can easily be grabbed from, using long salad tongs, and even the growing popular Candy Chute DIY are all great options.
Whatever you decide, the guidelines from the Alberta Government strongly discourages leaving out bulk bowls of candy for anyone to grab from.
Do you have other tips for celebrating Halloween safely this year? Leave a comment below so we can add it to our blog post!
