Rejoice, you people of Jerusalem! Rejoice in the LORD your God! For the rain He sends demonstrates His faithfulness. Once more the autumn rains will come, as well as the rains of spring. – Joel 2:23 NLT
If you’re not a fan of Halloween, or find the spooky season a bit too much for your personal convictions, have no fear! There are plenty of ways to bring fun into your life this fall season that don’t include all the spectres, spooks, ghouls, and ghosts.
Just because others may want to stuff the month with costumes, candy, and cobwebs doesn’t mean you have to! Fall is a time to welcome in cooler weather, marvel at the changing colors, and remember that life ebbs and flows between the vibrancy of life and the barrenness of rest.
What Matters Most
Depending on who you are, fall can come with different expectations. Some feel it is a season for slowness—drifting by like a delicate leaf falling from a tree. A time to stand on the porch and feel the crisp air as the smell of a fresh cup of coffee lingers under your nose. Days of snuggling up under a blanket and listening to the crackling of a fire. Evening strolls through the park as you spot the ombre leaves across the treetops. The name of the game is unhurriedness.
But perhaps you’re one who finds this time to be exhilaratingly filled with hangouts, get togethers, and gatherings. Plans fill up as fast as people can say yes to your invitations. Instead of the lull that many seek, you see it as an opportunity to fill up the schedule with long-awaited social catch ups and end of year preparations.
What are you hoping to get out of this season? Are there any expectations you want to meet before autumn welcomes in the winter months? Setting your priorities will help you map out not only Halloween alternatives, but how to feel your fall altogether!
Casual Alternatives to Halloween
If you want to embrace the easygoing nature of fall, there are plenty of casual alternatives to Halloween.
1. Countryside Drive: Grab your favorite warm beverage, throw on your comfy clothes, and hop in the car! If you’re familiar with your area, map out some places you want to drive through as you enjoy the changing season. If you need some ideas, see what some of the people in your neighborhood have to recommend (this also gives you a good reason to connect with them without committing to big plans)!
2. Holiday Delights: Grab your favorite recipes for some fall treats and jump into the kitchen! Turn on some cozy music or a holiday flick, light a candle, and let the aromas of autumn fill your house! Homemade cider, apple pie, sugar cookies, pumpkin pie, cinnamon rolls, and anything else that gets you excited for fall! Don’t have a recipe or want to try something new? Give a friend or family member a call who loves to bake! They would be delighted to share!
Higher Energy Halloween Alternatives
Looking to get out of the house or put a little more emphasis on the active part of activities? Here are some great opportunities likely to be nearby on Halloween that let you celebrate in the way you want.
1. Church Events: Many churches offer Halloween alternatives that keep the darkness of the holiday away. Go online and search for nearby trunk-or-treating, fall festivals, or similar events. Going to a place like this gives you the peace of mind that you’re surrounded by other believers who want to enjoy the day in a God-honoring way.
2. Early Friendsgiving: Even though November is the month for Thanksgiving, hosting a get-together for those who don’t participate in Halloween is a great way to spend the night! Before everyone starts traveling and getting swept up in their own Thanksgiving plans, October 31st is a great day to get loved ones together to share in a meal and fill your house with gratitude.
Set Your Eyes on Things Above
However you choose to spend Halloween, the best thing you can do is set your heart and mind on Christ Jesus. Use this day to surround yourself with loved ones, catch up on rest, fill your soul, and give thanks to God for this wonderful creation He’s blessed us with.
Whether you’re looking to slow down or max-out the day, you’re sure to find God’s hand all over it. As the apostle Paul encouraged, “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him” (Colossians 3:17 ESV).
