Halloween, a time for trick or treating, pumpkin carving, haunted houses and the ongoing discussion of whether it’s a satanic holiday.
The meaning of Halloween differs for everyone and speaking with fellow Ferris students made that abundantly clear.
In the words of computer information systems sophomore Hannah Vinton, “Halloween is a way to become something other than yourself for a night and just enter this whole entire new character and explore things that you might have otherwise never thought to do.”
For plastics engineering technology senior Elisabeth Stuhldreer, Halloween is a bit simpler.
“It means I get to spooky and dress even weirder than I normally dress. And candy.” plastic engineering technology senior Elisabeth Stuhldreer said. Things change, but the impact Halloween has on us and our need for a break from the monotony of daily life is something that’s endured.
Halloween has flowed over the boundaries of the 31st and moved on to dominate October. By the beginning of the month decorations are up, seasonal Halloween shops open and the movie marathons begin.
“It’s a whole month thing,” said Stuhldreer. “When its October I dress up in a Halloween costume like every weekend. At least in the past I did. Cause there was always a Halloween party. You just like walk down the street and see a bunch of costumed kids and are like alright follow them we’re going.”
This sentiment was mirrored by other students.
“It’s got to be a whole month thing. Cause the parties are usually for a whole weekend then it’s like a movie festival all month,” data analytics senior Mitchell Blank said.
“It’s definitely a whole month thing. Spooky season is a whole month holiday for me.” said Vinton.
Whether you start celebrating in October or in the months leading up to it the general consensus is that one day is not enough.
COVID-19 has brought many things to a standstill but it’s not stopping for Halloween. Amidst restrictions, uncertainty and the risk of falling ill the Bulldogs have chosen to adapt.
Though most didn’t have plans set in stone the main idea was to keep get togethers among close friends, small and contained.
“I don’t really have a Halloween plan,” said Vinton. “I intend to just spend it with my friends and watch some scary movies and just have a relaxed night.”
When asked how they’re spending their night, Stuhldreer kept the mandates in mind. “With my friends like you know just like roommates and close people I have contact with every day. Probably having a small get together.”
Not everyone will share “the keep it small” sentiment, but some students will and that’s better than nothing.
No one can dictate how students choose to spend Halloween this year, but paying attention and practicing the safety measures that have been implemented is one way to ensure that you’ll be here for the next one. And if Halloween isn’t your thing there’s always the discounted candy to look forward to once the day has passed.