Halloween From Home

graphic by thanh thai

Spooky season has arrived quickly this year, but the daunting coronavirus still looms overhead. We all hoped the pandemic would blow over by this point in the year, but as the 31st draws near, only a miracle would allow for a ‘normal’ Halloween. Sadly, that means no trick-or-treating and definitely no parties. If there’s no going out, why even get a costume? To make matters worse, this was supposed to be the supreme Halloween! Halloween falls on a full moon Saturday this year.

But we at Jerk still believe Halloween 2020 can be one to remember. In fact, it could even be better than before. No crowded parties? No risking hypothermia while running from party to party? No catcalling? This could be good.

We’ll start with saying that wearing a costume isn’t entirely off the table. Rejoice in knowing there is no immense pressure to show up to a costume party in your custom made Prince Zuko costume or, even worse, drop some serious cash on some fast fashion off Amazon. Keep that $200 dollars in your pocket and keep your costume light. Save the big idea you had planned for next year. Instead draw on some whiskers and put on ears to keep it lowkey. 

What should you do with the money you saved from not buying that expensive costume? Buy candy, as much as you want. Go to the store and buy chocolate, jolly ranchers, candy corn — if you’re into that—  or whatever you want. It’s been a crazy year and you just took your midterms. Treat yourself and don’t dare feel guilty. 

Now you’ve got your costume and your candy. When the 31st comes and you’re stuck at home since you’re a ~morally responsible citizen~, watch anything and everything related to Halloween. Hang by your TV or laptop and put on a scary movie or a Halloween special. We recommend Night of the Living Dead (1968) for the movie buffs, The Babadook (2014) for the horror enthusiasts,  The Craft (1996) for those looking for something cheesy, and Scary Godmother (2003) for those who can’t decide on a childhood favorite. Speaking from experience, there’s nothing like watching a nice scary movie with a bag of candy that you don’t have to share. Self-care at its prime.

So, Halloween will be very different this year. Big whoop. Let’s embrace it and have a memorable Halloweekend, even if it’s inside with just your roommate. Grab your costumes, your candy, and your horror flicks. It’s spooky season.