From fairy princesses to vampires, Hallowe’en is one occasion where almost anything goes. So if your family is not feeling too enchanted with the idea of dressing up the little ones and following them around in the dark to gather a pile of candy they shouldn’t be eating, why not think of trying something different this year?

Welcome to my wacky world: Choose a theme as a family and go all out, without going out! It could be barnyard, or Harry Potter or your favourite Disney movie. Decorate the house and dress the whole family in costume. And then just stay in for some family time, and enjoy the reaction of the trick-or-treaters who come to visit your make-believe world.

Dracula lives on: If you’re a big fan of thrills and horror, and a little too old for the door-to-door costume parade, you might want to consider a night at the movies. Find a few friends and get your yearly fix at a nearby cinema, or rent a few old classics, stick the popcorn in the microwave and watch them at home.

The more, the merrier: Many parents who want to enjoy the lighter side of Hallowe’en with their children are replacing trick-or-treating with a group event. Getting together with a few other families for dress-up, games and candy offers a safe environment for some memorable moments. It’s also a great opportunity to pool your change and offer some joy to a child in the developing world. Check out the World Vision gift catalogue at www.worldvision.ca/gifts for ideas.

Harvest happiness: For people who just don’t feel inspired by goblins and gore, remember the month of October offers other options for celebration and home décor. Harvest time is generally party time around the world, and certainly worth celebrating in our land of perpetual plenty. Visit your local farmers’ market and choose a variety of fruits and vegetables – familiar and extravagant – to decorate your home and enhance your party menu.

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Karen Flores, World Vision Canada
905-565-6200 ext 3497
416-277-5563 (cell)
karen_flores@worldvision.ca