how to throw a socially distant halloween party

How to Throw a Socially Distant Halloween Party

Like so much else in 2020, Halloween is going to look a little different this year. But that doesn’t mean the spookiest holiday is canceled! Now more than ever, in fact, we could use an excuse to dress up in our silliest outfits and have fun with our families and friends. But, of course, safety is the priority. So here are my top tricks (and treats!) for a socially distant Halloween party that’s as festive as ever. So you and yours can still have a happy Quarantine-o-ween!

Host an outdoor Halloween mask-querade party. You can still host a small party if you’re smart about following safety guidelines. In fact, you can make them part of the fun! Ask guests at your socially distant Halloween party to wear a costume that incorporates a mask and give a prize for the best one. Set up a spooktacular sanitizer station and create individual treat boxes instead of a buffet. Make sure to space out seating and use a well-ventilated area, ideally outdoors. (Plus, there’s something especially atmospheric about celebrating under a chilly October sky!)

Throw a virtual Halloween party. We’re pros at virtual gatherings by now, but Zoom is bound to be especially fun on Hallow’s Eve! Plus, a virtual party is the ultimate socially distant Halloween party. Set a theme and have everyone dress up. Play a round of Halloween trivia, or have a virtual pumpkin carving contest. Give everyone a menu or cocktail recipe that you can all make and enjoy. You could even turn it into a ghoulish dance party (what better time to learn the ‘Thriller’ choreography?). And don’t forget the scary Zoom backgrounds!

Serve creepy cuisine to the family. Even if it’s just your immediate family or household, you can still have a fun celebration. Serve up a special Halloween dinner with creepy takes on your favorite foods. For example, ‘spider web soup’ or ‘eyeball meatballs’. Lots of takeout places are also adding novelty Halloween items to their menus if you’d prefer a night off from cooking. Whatever you serve, make sure everyone goes all out on costumes!

Have a scary movie night. This lends itself to any kind of party. For example, you could have a small outdoor movie night for friends, cuddle up with the family, or watch a movie virtually with friends using Netflix Party. All are great options for a socially distant Halloween party with built-in entertainment.

Challenge your neighbors to a porch decorating contest. A porch decorating contest is a great way to create a sense of community even when you aren’t able to hang out with each other. You can even include individually wrapped candy into your décor for local kids who may opt to go trick or treating, 2020 style! Then encourage a drive-by tour of the neighborhood!

However you decide to celebrate Halloween this year, it’s bound to be one to remember!

xoxo,
Mindy