Holidays Take Leave As COVID-19 Remains
Many holidays aren’t being celebrated in 2020 due to COVID-19 protocols that require people to socially distance themselves to avoid catching the virus. And on that lengthy list of things that have been “banned,” holiday festivities are definitely one. Sure, St. Patrick’s Day, 4th of July, and Labor Day all passed by without too much fuss, but with major holidays like Halloween approaching, the debates have already begun. Of course, the plan to cancel Halloween is the safest and smartest choice on the table, but there are many people not willing to part with their regularly programmed festivities.
Courtesy of Children’s Hospital Colorado
According to a story from the Washington Post, “As of Sept. 17, more than 587,000 children had tested positive for COVID-19, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.” So, with that number on the table, it’s tough for parents to decide what’s best. And for those old enough to head out to parties, when alcohol gets involved safety measures typically go out the window. So, many are stuck deciding on how to celebrate their holiday. But, fear not, the internet is on our side. To aid in the conversation, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has created an entire tab on celebrating holidays amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. And specifically, a tab for Halloween centered activities to minimize the risk of infecting yourself and others. Here is a list of the CDC’s low-risk activities to keep you safe, healthy, and still spooky during Halloween:
- Carving or decorating pumpkins with members of your household and displaying them
- Carving or decorating pumpkins outside, at a safe distance, with neighbors or friends
- Decorating your house, apartment, or living space
- Doing a Halloween scavenger hunt where children are given lists of Halloween-themed things to look for while they walk outdoors from house to house admiring Halloween decorations at a distance
- Having a virtual Halloween costume contest
- Having a Halloween movie night with people you live with
- Having a scavenger hunt-style trick-or-treat search with your household members in or around your home rather than going house to house
Courtesy of Prevention
The CDC has also provided lists of moderate-risk activities as well as high-risk activities for those researching where their plans fall and or substitutions for their plans. As well, the whole tab provides guests of the site with smart tips and tricks if you are to engage with higher-risk activities like attending parties and so forth, whether it be Halloween or any other holiday celebration. None are 100% effective in avoiding COVID-19 completely, but they can reduce your risk.
Although this year is a bit different from most celebrations, you can still dress up and decorate for Halloween, but add a mask if possible, or switch your party over to zoom. Maybe do a scavenger hunt for candy within your home instead of door-to-door trick or treating. But, whatever you do, celebrate your holiday as safe and enjoyable as possible.