Halloween is mostly about scary things and its popularity is increasing among kids and adults alike. The most memorable Halloween party I went to was one of the first ones I attended. It was almost seven years back and the whole Halloween concept was just picking up. The setting was an old house that was uninhabited for a few months. I wore mismatched clothes, gaudy make-up with dishevelled hair. I was a sight. We arrived at the house and at the entrance was a coffin from which a ghastly body suddenly sat up. I shrieked and ran in, only to run into a skeleton shaking violently. I gathered myself together and stepped into the main hall in the hope that the scariest part was over. I’m quite fainthearted when it comes to horror-related stuff.
I watch a horror movie either on mute, or in the most unlikely event of ending up in a theatre, I watch it with half an eye open, ears firmly closed, so much so they are sore by the time the movie is over. I think the hosts knew my weakness and decided to walk me up a smoky stairway while a piano played bass chords. Upstairs was a tall lanky figure that appeared from the smoke wearing a scream mask and chasing me. How I hated it!
Halloween party invites having been doing the rounds for the last week. The concept of trick or treat among kids has really not caught up, but the costume parties definitely have. If you are doing the trick or treat routine among friends, here are some dos and don’ts.
l Dressing up your child can be the best part about Halloween. Let the kids choose their own costume. There is nothing sadder than having a child who doesn’t understand his/her costume. Go easy on the make-up. Most make-up can give tender skin an allergy.
l Decorate your home if you have kids coming over. One corner will do instead of the entire house.
l Keep sufficient treats handy (kids rarely do the trick part) and avoid homemade treats to keep safe from allergies.
l Fix up a time when
the kids can come over and ensure you are home. In case you aren’t, leave the treats in a bag outside, so the kids don’t return disappointed.
l For the kids: Take only one treat. If there are insufficient numbers, try and share. Always be accommodating of smaller kids.
l As an adult, Halloween is a great time to bring out those costumes and dress like your favourite character. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing your costume:
l Pick a costume that is easy to construct and wear. Wearing too elaborate a costume may take the fun out of your party experience.
l Respect the cultural differences of people. Wear costumes that do not offend religious sentiments.
l Stay away from political costumes. Any costume that could be considered controversial or remotely deemed in poor taste should be avoided.
l Make-up always adds the finishing touch to your entire look. However, avoid overdoing the glitter and the gaudiness.
l If you’re attending an office party for Halloween, remember that you have a job to keep at the end of the day. Wearing a racy costume will definitely make you the talking point of the office. Steer clear of anything that is too short, too tight or too revealing.
l Halloween is also a good time to spread a meaningful message. Right from the theme to the costume you choose, try and keep it interesting and purposeful. Try a green theme this year for an environment-friendly message.
Happy Halloween!
