Spooky season has arrived and if you’re anything like me, you can’t WAIT for Halloween! But, COVID has made life a little different this year, especially with the upcoming holiday.

Many places around Maryland have limited Halloween activity, including trick-or-treating. But for those places that haven’t, here are some safe and happy tips to still have your scary fun!

• Virtual costume parties & parades
  • Zoom is a great option to show off costumes and play games. 
  • Outdoor costume parades are another option if it is possible for everyone to stay at least 6 feet apart and wear cloth face coverings.
• Spooky movie night
  • You can’t go wrong with a Halloween movie marathon! Some of my old-time favorites include Hocus Pocus, Halloweentown, Monster House and Casper.
• Decorating pumpkins
  • Decorating pumpkins is always a safe and healthy option! Be sure to roast the pumpkin seeds when you’re done for a healthy snack option as well!
• If there is no trick-or-treating in​ your community…
  • Trick-or-treating may be discouraged or canceled in some areas this year, as I know it is in mine.
  • A family scavenger hunt for treats in your home or yard can be a fun alternative. 
• If trick-or-treating is still on in your neighborhood, avoid large groups or clustering at doorsteps or anywhere else. 
  • Participating in one-way trick-or-treating where individually wrapped goodie bags are lined up for families to grab and go while continuing to social distance 
    • such as at the end of a driveway or at the edge of a yard
    • If you are preparing goodie bags, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after preparing the bags.
  • Make sure protective masks are used at all times!
    • The CDC states that “a costume mask (such as for Halloween) is not a substitute for a cloth mask. A costume mask should not be used unless it is made of two or more layers of breathable fabric that covers the mouth and nose and doesn’t leave gaps around the face.”
    • Do not wear a costume mask over a protective cloth mask because it can be dangerous if the costume mask makes it hard to breathe.

The CDC offers great options, instructions and alternatives for some Halloween fun!

Just because we are in the midst of a global pandemic, doesn’t mean you can’t still get spooky and creative with your children! Have fun, be safe and don’t forget to STAY SPOOKY!