Carve out your own tradition

Traditional festivals and celebrations are a great way to have fun and connect with your family and community. Whether you’re celebrating Halloween, a holiday or cultural event, there’ll be plenty of opportunity to tailor it to you – or even create something brand new! With Halloween around the corner, here are some things to think about when it comes to creating a meaningful celebration that you can enjoy year after year.

1. History

Many traditions trace back centuries to different times and ways of living. October 31^st marks the beginning of Allhallowtide, a time dedicated to remembering saints (‘hallows’), martyrs and all the faithful departed. It was thought that spirits and fairies were particularly active and able to slip more easily between our world and the ‘Otherworld’. A bit of historical digging will reveal some amazing gems of knowledge, and give your own celebration a sense of connection with the past.

2. Food

Nothing marks a tradition like a good bit of feasting! But there’s no need to turn an event into a sugar overload. For spooky Halloween snacks, there’s plenty of room to get creative. Why not try pumpkin hummus with blue corn chips, black and orange fruit skewers (think melon, oranges, blackberries and purple grapes) or vanilla yogurt popsicles with orange fruits. Whatever you’re making, invite your friends and family to be part of the creative process.

3. Games

Everyone wins when you’re having fun. Mark a special occasion with a range of games everyone can play. From a boardgame night at home with the family, a scavenger hunt through your local neighbourhood, or a sporting extravaganza in your own backyard. Don’t forget that the simplest games can often be the most loved. The key is to think of a special twist that’s unique to the tradition you’re creating – and making sure everyone’s joining in the fun.

4. Costumes

Halloween is especially known for its costume creations, but any tradition can be made more memorable with some special dress up! Second-hand shops are a great place to find imaginative outfits (without the hefty price tag), while costume hire shops can offer a total transformation. In some cultures mask making is a key element of many traditions. Whatever you decide, it’s about getting everyone involved and having a laugh together.

With Halloween on our doorstep, there’s plenty of reason to celebrate. Whether you go for the tried and true scary costumes and sweets, or carve your own out-of-the-box tradition, its entirely up to you. If it’s fun and helps to strengthen your connections, it’ll be a tradition worth keeping.