LILY ANDERSON / ASST. OPINION EDITOR

As summer fades into fall and the air grows crisp, a certain excitement starts to manifest. Halloween is approaching, and the familiar anticipation of costumes, candy and scary stories is palpable. While some may argue that dressing up is reserved for the younger generation, you’re never too old to wear a costume and embrace the magic of Halloween.

Halloween is a holiday that transcends age and speaks to the child in all of us. It’s a time when we can let go of our inhibitions, unlock our creativity and immerse ourselves in a world of fantasy. From the young trick-or-treaters excitedly running door-to-door to the college students attending costume parties, Halloween offers a unique opportunity for everyone to break free from their everyday roles and indulge in the joy of dressing up.

One of the most common arguments against adults dressing up for Halloween is that  it’s childish or immature. However, this notion overlooks the therapeutic and stress-relieving aspects of this practice. In our increasingly busy lives, we often become entangled  in  the seriousness of school, responsibilities and work. Halloween provides a much-deserved escape from this monotonous routine. Dressing up as a favorite character and embracing the make-believe allows us to momentarily step away from any worries and experience the excitement of   childhood   once   more.

Halloween costumes offer a unique platform for self-expression and imagination. Whether it’s channeling a beloved movie character, a historical figure or an otherworldly creature, costumes act as an extension of our personalities. They allow us to explore parts of ourselves that we might not reveal in our everyday lives. The act of choosing, creating and wearing a costume can be an empowering experience that fosters self-discovery and encourages authenticity.

Dressing up also allows us to bond with others in a way we usually cannot. Family, friends and even strangers can connect through a shared admiration for creativity and enthusiasm. Dressing up together can be a unifying experience that brings individuals of all ages closer, creating a sense of community. My favorite way to dress up is by creating a clever group costume that my friends and I can all participate in. After all, what is Halloween without the infectious laughter, the shared stories and the photos in costume with loved ones?

It’s also essential to acknowledge the economic impact of Halloween. As a society, we invest heavily in this holiday, from purchasing decorations to costumes and candy. To restrict the enjoyment of Halloween exclusively to children is to underestimate its significant role in our economy. The holiday is also an excellent time to practice sustainability and support local businesses. 

Last year, I chose not to participate in Halloween. I was stressed out about school, anxious about spending money on a costume and figured it was in my best interest just to ignore the festivities. While I may have slightly benefited from the increased sleep I got that weekend, I look back on last October and am sad I made this decision. While I’ll probably be scrambling to find a costume and make plans, I cannot wait to step out this year dressed to the nines with my best friends. 

Halloween is a celebration that does not discriminate against age and speaks to the timeless spirit of imagination and creativity. It’s an opportunity to experience the thrill of dressing up, bonding with loved ones, and finding the joy of self-expression. As we approach Halloween, remember that you’re never too old to embrace the magic of this spooky holiday. So go ahead, pick out your favorite costume, adopt your inner child and get ready to join the fun because the spirit of Halloween is forever.