If Halloween makes you go, “Boo, humbug,” try adopting a neutral, detached attitude. After all, many people adore this occasion; it’s practically a national holiday for children. There are certain fundamentalist religions that don’t observe it, but if you’re not a member of one of them, you’ll look like a crank if you complain too loudly. And unless you live alone in the middle of nowhere, you probably can’t opt out entirely. So: If your own kids plan to go up and down the street ringing doorbells, you must answer yours cheerfully when other Harrys and Hermiones come calling. If you don’t have children or yours are grown, it still behooves you to fake Halloween cheer to keep the peace with your neighbors. Here’s how to handle awkward Halloween etiquette snafus and scenarios with aplomb. This is especially important if you’re trying to celebrate Halloween safely during coronavirus. Some locales are considering canceling trick-or-treating, while others are letting individuals make the call. You can still stay safe (and protect others) while taking part in the festivities by wrapping up individual treats and spacing them out on a stoop or porch so visitors can easily scoop one up without touching the others. If you still want some face time, wear a mask, use hand sanitizer between groups, and distribute candy from your bowl—it’s best to not allow any other hands in the candy bowl. If it’s a cause you don’t believe in—some parents will use adorable children to further their political opinions—hold your tongue and kindly offer a piece of candy instead.
