As the leaves turn and the weather grows colder, students are preparing for Halloween. This year our school community is fully embracing the season. Whether it’s carving pumpkins, partying, or binge-watching classic horror films, students are finding ways to celebrate this year. A holiday that was once a neighborhood centered tradition changes forms for high schoolers.
This Halloween, many students are opting for parties or small gatherings rather than traditional trick-or-treating. Sophomore Kypton Vincent said he plans to attend a party out of town, emphasizing the desire for more exciting social experiences outside Livingston. Many students commented that Livingston lacks exciting parties, prompting them to travel for the festivities. Junior Liam Lannan explained, “I am going to Bozeman because the parties are better.” Students say Bozeman offers larger, more energetic gatherings with a better atmosphere. Max Smith, a sophomore, added, “The girls are better there,” when asked why he wanted to go to Bozeman for Halloween. When asked about his Halloween plans, Sam Jones, a senior, said, “I am working this year. I think Halloween can be fun, but it is not very important to me.” Many students have expressed their appreciation for the fact that there is no school on Halloween this year. In past years there has usually been school on Halloween.
While many students are heading to parties or staying home, some are keeping Halloween traditions alive by trick-or-treating. Sophomore Dawson Wood said she plans to go trick-or-treating with a small group of friends. Several freshmen also mentioned they intend to go out for candy, showing that even older students can still enjoy childhood traditions.
Other students are choosing to stay in and watch movies. Horror films, comedies, and family classics are all good choices. For older students, Halloween feels different than it did in childhood. Many students have stated that Halloween doesn’t feel the same anymore. Most students agreed with this sentiment, saying that as they get older, the holiday shifts from a community-centered activity to a less important day.
Overall, this year’s Halloween demonstrates a blend of old and new traditions. Many freshmen and sophomores are continuing to go trick or treating and keep childhood traditions, while many upperclassmen are planning to party or stay at home, shifting away from tradition. Although students are celebrating in different ways this year, the holiday still remains.
