Massive amounts of chocolate, snot-nosed trick-or-treaters and the chance for an extreme makeover - it may just be the Milky Way bars, but there's something about Oct. 31 that prompts some of the most memorable Halloween bashes.
Halloween is traditionally one of those holidays nobody can remember the reason they're celebrating, since there is no real point except to have fun and party.
"It's a chance to let your inner child out," said Sarah Duval, a senior history major. "You get to put a costume on and be someone else."
In order to enjoy Halloween to its fullest, either hosting or attending a party is a must, especially while wearing a costume.
"I'm going to be Yoshi from Nintendo," said Eric Yeung, a junior business major. "I have a green suit and an actual Yoshi mask that goes over my head. I even have a big green tail."
The costume is just the first step in the recipe for creating a Halloween ambiance, planning for the actual bash is just as important. Games, food, decoration and music are necessary elements to create an environment worthy of partying the night away.
"My roommates and I are having a party this year," said Craig Hightower, a senior business major. "We've got great dance music, food, a strobe light, disco ball and even a fog machine."
First, focus on the tunes. Aim for a Halloween themed playlist - including Rob Zombie or Marilyn Manson - to create the mood. Be sure to remember the classics such as "Monster Mash," "Ghostbusters," "The Addams Family," Michael Jackson's "Thriller" and of course the Michael Myers' eerie theme song from the "Halloween" movies.
Second, prepare for some fixings. Offering food at a party may sound a bit old-fashioned and entirely too Martha Stewart, especially since most students are content with a case of Mike's Hard Lemonade, but it certainly can't hurt. It doesn't have to be a buffet of filet mignon and sirloin steaks - a few bowls of munchies, snacks and punch should do the trick.
Like snacks, Halloween candy is also appreciated. To avoid spending a month's worth of paychecks, simply ask each of your guests to bring a bag of candy or chips to pass.
If you're courageous enough, go trick-or-treating before the party. There's no law that says college kids can't have fun too. The candy accumulated in excursion, not to mention the adrenaline rush from acting like you're seven, can be used for the party.
"I'm going trick-or-treating in the rich neighborhoods or anywhere with nice houses," said Erin Sherwood, a senior pre-med major.
For a tasty beverage, make a punch that looks horrible but tastes great. Combine a container of grape juice, club soda and ginger ale or a lemon-lime flavored soda in a large bowl. Toss in about 10 large scoops of orange or lime sherbet. It will melt and create a strange looking film over the top of the punch.
Third, plan out some decorations. They can really add to the atmosphere and create the desired environment. Sticking with the traditional black and orange is probably the best. Scout out a discount store like Big Lots, or a local dollar store for less expensive versions of streamers, candles, black and orange lights, cobwebs and themed paper plates and cups.
There is always the option of making your own decorations, so think back to your elementary school days. White construction paper can suddenly become a string of ghosts, wads of cotton stretched thin become spider webs for the corners of the room and orange and black paper chain links can make any doorway Halloween friendly.
Carved pumpkins and candles can substitute regular lights and help create a spooky atmosphere.
Fourth, think about the entertainment. A Halloween party isn't a Halloween party without bobbing for apples in your tub or sink. Give out a bag of candy for the best costume. Play scary movies in the background.
If you're really ambitious, play a practical joke on the party - have a friend tap on the windows, or suddenly turn off the circuit breakers just as the phone rings.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
