1. Visit a Pumpkin Patch and Carve a Pumpkin
Visit a pumpkin patch to pick out a pumpkin for carving. Though carving is slightly hazardous and very messy, this Halloween tradition is a classic.
How to carve a pumpkin:
- Step 1: Using a sharp knife, cut the top off of the pumpkin
- Step 2: Using a fork to scrape sides and large spoon to scoop out innards, gut the pumpkin
- Step 3: Once the pumpkin has been gutted, wipe the outer surface clean and draw the face (or other design) using a marker
- Step 4: Carve away
2. Have a Scary Movie Marathon
My 9 favorite scary movie picks:
- The Strangers
- The Shining
- When a Stranger Calls (the original, circa 1979)
- The Exorcism of Emily Rose
- Ju-On (with sub-titles)
- The Sixth Sense
- The Silence of the Lambs
- Rosemary’s Baby
- 1408
3. Go “Ugly” Seasonal Sweater Shopping
Head to a Goodwill or thrift store to purchase a variety of festive seasonal sweaters embroidered with images of witches, ghosts, pumpkins, turkeys, gourds, Santa Clauses, reindeer, Stars of David, snowmen, etc. Extra points for finding sweaters with sparkles, decorative buttons or ribbon.
4. Play Touch Football
Grab a few friends, head to Marston Quad and celebrate the season with a game of touch football.
*Photo courtesy of pomona.edu
5. Make Warm Drinks
Make a mug of peppermint hot cocoa, spiced apple cider or a simple cup of hot tea to warm your insides.
Spiced Cider Recipe:
- 2 quarts apple cider
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 1 pinch ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon whole allspice
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- Bring ingredients to boil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to bring cider to a simmer. Let simmer for 10 minutes. Serve warm.
