As we approach the Halloween season, there is always one question that arises: at what age should one stop celebrating Halloween? While Halloween traditions vary widely based on each individual, the idea of creative self-expression and eternal youth that Halloween represents remains solid. Halloween is a valuable holiday not only for its fun festivities, bright costumes and delicious treats, but because it’s an opportunity for people to become someone or something that they love. 

Halloween is about expression. Even though people dress up as something other than themselves, costumes are a projection of someone’s interests and creativity, in turn letting people be themselves in a fun and stress-free way. Junior Udy Mbanaso said, “It can be seen as freedom.” Choosing what costume to wear is also a part of Halloween that actually becomes more special as celebrators become older. Costumes can become more complicated, humorous, distinctive or even reflect political views; all ideas that are difficult to express as a young child whose costume choice was probably influenced by a parent.

Whether it’s a character from a movie, a practical joke amongst friends or a Halloween classic, a costume can symbolize more than what appears on the surface level. A break from school or work can truly liberate a person’s soul and give overworked and burdened people a chance to let loose. Young or old, costumes are the embodiment of the ageless traditions that Halloween entails. “I don’t think there’s an age limit and I could definitely see myself dressing up for the next couple of years,” said junior Jillian Hilwig. 

An important factor in some people’s decision to celebrate the scariest night of the year is not the fear of monsters and ghouls but the fear of societal judgment. However, if you simply ask, most people would find that very rarely do others care. “I probably would not dress up for Halloween but I respect it if people do,” said junior Raj Bhansali.

 In addition, there are many other options besides trick-or-treating that older people can opt for, even if they believe they are too mature compared to the average trick-or-treater. “I feel like people love Hallowen because it’s a good reason to get together with people and watch scary movies or dress up,” said Hilwig. Handing out candy, organizing community events, costume contests, Halloween parties and watching late-night horror movies are just some of the ways that people can both enjoy Halloween and participate in activities more socially age-appropriate.

The spirit of Halloween spreads through the community. By escorting younger siblings who are trick-or-treating or handing out candy to children in the neighborhood, October 31st offers plenty of positive community-building. Events like pumpkin picking and haunted house tours involve and uplift the community with the additional ability to be for charity.

For this Halloween season, remember to choose to celebrate in the way that you want. This can mean going all-out on your costume or not celebrating at all. The most important part of Halloween is simply to have fun, and fun has no age limit.