Halloween is just on the horizon, and everyone is preparing for the season by buying costumes, candy, and spooky decor for the beloved holiday. But for some of us, the idea of stepping into a haunted house, facing crowds of people in an extravagant costume, or going to loud parties might feel more stressful than fun. Maybe the spookiness doesn’t sit right with you, maybe you don’t feel like buying several different costumes this year, or maybe you just don’t feel like going out at all. Whatever the reason is, it’s completely valid to feel overwhelmed by Halloween, and you’re not alone either.
While Halloween is marketed as a season of thrills and chills, it’s perfectly okay to admit that it isn’t for you. After all, there’s no rule that says you have to dive into the spookiness or attend every party that night or the following weekend. It’s important to remember that you can still enjoy Halloween in a way that feels good to you. The pressure to conform to mainstream celebrations can make anyone feel left out or anxious, but with some thoughtful alternatives, you can carve out your own version of Halloween that brings you comfort instead of stress.
This year, why not let go of the fear that Halloween has to be about parties and going out and focus on what makes you feel at ease? From cozying up with a warm drink and watching a few horror movies, to finding more mindful ways to embrace the seasons, there are endless alternatives that will help you unwind without missing out on the fun.
- Host a cozy movie night.
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Is there anything more cozy than curling up with a warm blanket and a good fall movie? If you aren’t a fan of horror movies, you can always skip them and watch a few feel-good favorites like Hocus Pocus, The Nightmare Before Christmas or The Addams Family. But if you are a fan of horror movies, you can watch (or re-watch) classics like Scream, Halloween, or Paranormal Activity.
- bake fall-themed treats.
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I enjoy baking like the next girl, but there’s nothing like baking a few fall-themed treats for yourself or your friends. Whip up some caramel apples, pumpkin banana bread, or cinnamon spice cake. You can find way more ideas from social media and online communities that love exploring and creating new fall-themed treats. Not only will your kitchen smell amazing, but the act of baking can be meditative, stress-relieving, and a fun way to embrace the season.
- Take a walk in nature.
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If you enjoy the crisp, cool autumn air and watching the leaves as they change colors, maybe a peaceful walk in nature can be the perfect alternative. You could simply walk around your neighborhood or find a nature trail to explore. Remember to bring along a warm drink and a cozy sweater while enjoying the serenity of nature.
- Carve some pumpkins.
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Pumpkin carving is my favorite fall activity. I like it because it’s a creative and calming activity that you can do that doesn’t involve crowds or spooky vibes. If carving seems a bit too messy, try painting or decorating pumpkins with cool colors and patterns. You can display the pumpkins around your living space to create a sense of fall that doesn’t have to end after Halloween.
- Read a fall-themed book.
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You could never go wrong with a good book that has a cozy, autumn fall. Whether it’s a lighthearted story, a seasonal mystery, or a horror novel that you read during the day, reading a seasonal book can be just as satisfying as attending a Halloween party.
- Volunteer at a fall festival.
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Halloween can also be a time to give back to your community and help out. No matter the city, you can find local community centers to volunteer at, help prepare treats for a neighborhood Halloween event, or pass out candy to children. Helping others not only brings a smile to their face, but can also bring a sense of fulfillment without the overwhelming holiday stress.
Navigating Halloween stress doesn’t have to be a complete nightmare. It’s completely okay to skip the traditional festivities and do your own thing. Halloween is about having fun, not about forcing yourself into situations that make you uncomfortable or stressed. There are many ways to get into the seasonal spirit in ways that align with your comfort zone, whether that is enjoying a fall-themed movie, giving back to your community, or eating Halloween treats. There is no right or wrong way to celebrate and the most important thing is to do what makes you feel good.