Halloween is a popular event that almost 172 million people partake in. It is a fun way to celebrate Halloween with your friends or family. Trick-or-treating on Halloween night first started in the 1930s, and once it began gaining popularity, people have never stopped.

This year, however, many people will not be trick-or-treating due to the COVID-19 pandemic that has caused over 1.8 million deaths worldwide. But there are many ways you can still enjoy trick-or-treating while staying safe from the virus.

According to the CDC, a few effective ways people can stay protected from the coronavirus is to wear a mask in public, avoid close contact with other people, and to wash your hands often. The same steps can be implemented for trick-or-treating. Before heading out to trick-or-treat, don’t forget to wear a mask. This is very important because according to Henry Ford Livewell, COVID-19 is spread from person to person by respiratory droplets, which are largely predicted when you cough, sneeze, talk, and sing. Cloth face masks act as barriers, preventing those around you from inhaling these droplets. 

But remember, a costume mask cannot substitute a cloth mask. Carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer or wipes. When you get visits from other trick-or-treaters, instead of handing out the candy, give them premade goody bags with individually wrapped candy. You should also stay 6 feet apart at the minimum from others. This is important because the CDC says that people can spread the virus even before they know they are sick. Try to stay at least 6 feet away from others when possible, even if you—or they—do not have any symptoms.

If you don’t want to go trick-or-treating, that is fine. You can still have a lot of fun at home. One of the most important things you can do at home is to decorate your house for Halloween. You can have a house decorating or a costume contest in your neighborhood and let people vote on an online platform. To get into the spooky mood, try watching a scary movie! A few family-friendly spooky movies are Goosebumps, Monster House, The Nightmare Before Christmas, Poltergeist, and one of my favorites, A Quiet Place. To end the day on a sweet note, you and your family can make Halloween themed treats. A few popular Halloween treats include caramel apples, chocolate bars, rice crispy treats (can be cut in Halloween-themed shapes), and cookies.

If you are going out for trick-or-treating, be sure to follow the safety guidelines, and if you are staying home, then there are many different ways to get in the spooky mood. Take precautions and have fun!