For hundreds of years, Halloween has been regarded as one of the scariest times of year when people all over the world dress up in the goriest costumes they can conjure up. Not only are they dressing up, but people are grabbing a bucket of popcorn and preparing to watch the most terrifying movies in theaters.
While this spooky Halloween mindset may be common, it is certainly not for everyone. Those that do not prefer the gut-wrenching sights that go along with haunted houses or movies like “It” choose to celebrate Halloween in a merrier and, to some, childish way. They would rather spend their Halloween carving pumpkins and making festive cookies.
Both versions of the holiday sound enjoyable to the crowds they appeal to, but which of them is the “right” way to celebrate? Have no fear, because The Hiller staff is here to provide their thoughts and opinions on this terrifying debate.
There is no doubt that companies lean toward the spooky route in terms of advertising to their consumers. For example, a plethora of horror movies hit the theaters around October 31 for the festive factor. People that are interested in this genre of movies will be more likely to watch them around a generally scary time of year.
Historically speaking, Halloween is traditionally about scaring away spirits with horrifying costumes. Because of this, it can be argued that Halloween is supposed to be scary and not just another cute addition to the fall festivities.
Staff Writer Cadi Wright argues her opinion by saying, “The original point of the holiday was to scare spirits away. Scary things are definitely more true to the spirit of the holiday itself.”
While many enjoy the eerie side of Halloween, it can be argued that all of the horror and gore is for a more mature audience. The vast majority of those that celebrate Halloween to the fullest with costumes and trick-or-treating are children, so should they be more exposed to this terrifying side of the holiday?
Katherine Drezewski, a Staff Writer, mentions that there are many different types of creepy activities for varying age groups. For kids, a spooky version of their favorite TV show will satisfy that scary itch while something more intense like a local haunted house can suffice for a more mature age group.
As for those who want nothing to do with the spine-chilling sights of horror during Halloween, trading in haunted houses for hayrides through the pumpkin patch will be just as satisfying. Whether it’s watching children’s
Halloween movies or dressing up in corny costumes, this mellow version of the holiday certainly does not disappoint.
Staff Writer Cameron Street makes the point that growing up around sinister Halloween decorations has made her a fan of the happier side of holiday very early on. She also notes that Halloween should focus on having fun instead of being terrified of everything all of the time.
“I definitely think people should prefer the non-scary Halloween because I think it should be more enjoyable, but I understand that it’s probably more popular to like the scary version,” Street adds.
Much of the hatred toward a non-scary Halloween comes from the fact that celebrating the holiday this way feels like it should be reserved for children, however, this is far from the truth. Celebrating Halloween in a fun, happy way doesn’t mean participating in kid’s activities like trick-or-treating. Going to a pumpkin patch with friends or making festive treats can be a great way to celebrate without the scare-factor.
Wright furthers this point in explaining, “Some people might have trauma from scary experiences and the holiday can be a way for people to relax instead of being scared of things like haunted houses.”
In short, should Halloween be scary or should it be lighthearted and merry? The Hiller staff believes that both ways of celebrating result in a fun and memorable holiday, so the decision is ultimately up to each individual.
