Writer / Abigail Hake
Spooky days are on their way, and many of us are in need of any reason to decorate or party lately. While the times continue to be a little hairy, there’s still room to have fun, especially during the Halloween season. Here are a few tips on how to throw a spook-tacular Halloween party for you and your friends.
Invitations
This might be the year to indulge in creative invites. With fewer social opportunities to see friends and family in person, an actual mailed invite to your guests would be appreciated. Depending on the guest list, create your own or order pre-made invitations and add your own little touch. Throw in something spooky like a slimy crawler or tiny spiders so that when your guests open it, they’ll really be wowed!
Location
Will the gathering be outside or inside? At your house or another location? It doesn’t have to be fancy, but it can be. The biggest factors to consider are restrooms and overall space. This year especially, make sure that whatever venue you choose has enough room for your guests to spread out a little. If the party won’t be at your own home, check to make sure the venue owners allow decorations, because that’s up next…
Decorations
First, you might want to decide whether your party will be full-on scary, or just a little spooky yet family friendly. Regardless, a party is always more fun when the location is decorated so don’t skimp. You can keep it simple with spiderwebs, pumpkins and bats, or go a little crazier by adding mischievous skeletons to every room. Maybe include a skeleton that guests can pose with for a photo. Add some haunted decorations outside to welcome your guests in. Don’t be afraid to do something unconventional. If there is ever a time to try something crazy, it’s during Halloween.
Costumes
Encourage your guests to dress up, and make sure this is included on the invite so there’s no confusion. Maybe even note that there will be a costume contest, with a few different categories and a prize. You can even make your own trophy to give out at the end of the night. Once people know there is a prize involved, they’ll really up their costume game.
Games and Activities
Make sure there’s something available to entertain your guests as well. If you are partying outside, indulge in yard games like spooky cornhole with ghosts added to the boards. Pumpkin ring toss is a great game that’s super easy too and if you’re doing it indoors, getting indoor play equipment is a great option too. Use glow necklaces or bracelets as rings to play after dark. Consider a craft station where kids can make their own trick-or-treat bags to take home.
Food
This is where it can get really fun. Try a hand ice cube floating in your punch bowl, witches’ fingers or band-aid biscuits, to name just a few. Research websites like Pinterest, and you’ll find loads of horrific and blood-curdling treat ideas.
Music
This is key for any party. Curate your own playlist to ensure continued spooky sounds for the entire night. Make sure you include classics like “Monster Mash” and “Thriller” on there. Once you’ve completed it, make sure to put it on repeat so you don’t run out of mood music throughout the evening. Your guests will love the theme music and it will keep everyone feeling good. If you will be hosting a big party or event in a big venue, you may need to contact an acoustic solutions company to setup an audiovisual system. In addition, a lighting engineer may be hired to setup the lighting in the venue.
With these tips, you should be well on your way to throwing a memorable party that will be the talk of October. Remember, this is a time to be silly and creative, so don’t hold back. As always, stay safe and have fun!
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