7 Ways to Celebrate Halloween That Aren't So Spooky

Halloween can either be a fun or spooky, scary time for little ones. As parents we want them to enjoy the holiday and have fond memories of the celebration without be traumatized. If you have a little one who is getting old enough to start really understanding the tradition of Halloween and feeling a little anxious about it - we've got your back!

7 Ways to Celebrate Halloween That Aren't So Spooky

Halloween is a beloved holiday , but it's often associated with haunted houses, scary costumes, and eerie decorations. Not everyone (especially little ones!) is a fan of the spine-chilling aspects of this holiday. There are plenty of ways to celebrate this fun-filled holiday without giving yourself nightmares.

1. Pumpkin Carving Party

Gather your friends and family for a pumpkin carving party! Carving pumpkins into cheerful faces, whimsical shapes, or even your favorite characters can be a fun and creative way to celebrate Halloween. You can provide templates and carving tools, set up a decorating station with paints and glitter, and enjoy some delicious pumpkin-flavored treats. It's a fantastic way to get into the Halloween spirit without getting too spooky.

2. Fall Harvest Festival

Many communities host fall harvest festivals around Halloween, featuring activities like apple picking, hayrides, corn mazes, and petting zoos. These events emphasize the beauty of autumn and the abundance of the harvest season rather than the frights of Halloween. So grab your cozy sweater, head out to a local farm or festival, and enjoy the simple pleasures of the season.

3. Costume Party With Friends in Similar Age Groups

Costumes don't have to be frightening! Organize a costume party with friends or your community to showcase costumes that are cute, funny, or creative rather than scary. You can encourage creativity and ensure everyone feels comfortable by setting a "no-spooky" theme for the event. It's a sustainable way to celebrate Halloween and a great opportunity to showcase your imagination.

4. Movie Night (or Afternoon!)

If you're not a fan of horror films, you can still enjoy Halloween with a movie night featuring family-friendly classics like "Hocus Pocus," "The Nightmare Before Christmas," or "Casper." For extra little ones, beloved children's shows like "Bluey," "Daniel Tiger" and more feature episodes filled with charm, humor, and a touch of Halloween magic without any of the scares. Don't forget the popcorn and candy!

5. Nature Walk

Take a leisurely walk through a nearby park or nature reserve to soak in the beauty of the changing seasons. Collect colorful leaves, acorns, and pinecones to use for crafts or decorations at home. Nature walks are a serene and peaceful way to appreciate the natural world during Halloween.

6. Halloween Lights Drive

Many families really get into the Halloween spirit by decorating their house and yard with lights and a display similar to Christmas time. Wait until right before your little ones bedtime, dress them in their favorite pumpkin pajamas and take a ride around your neighborhood. Bonus: they might even be put right to sleep!

7. Baking Extravaganza

Turn your kitchen into a Halloween-themed bakery and spend the day baking delicious treats. Create pumpkin-shaped cookies, mummy cupcakes, or spiderweb brownies. Get creative with icing and decorations to make your treats look festive and fun. Baking is an enjoyable way to celebrate Halloween with a sweet twist.

Looking for more things that little ones love? Check out these articles:

• Raising Mentally Strong Kids—What Parents Need to Know
• 20 Genius Travel Hacks For Parents
• 6 Epic Potty Training Tips For Busy Parents
• 5 Things Parents Need to Know About Strep Throat
• 5 Early Signs of Autism

 Halloween is a holiday filled with possibilities beyond the spooky and frightening. With these seven ideas, you can celebrate Halloween in a way that suits your little ones preferences and build on them as they get older!