For many Shenendehowa students, Halloween is more than just candy and costumes. It’s a chance to spend time with friends, try out creative outfits, or even stick to traditions that don’t involve trick-or-treating at all.
For senior Israel Muamba, Halloween has never been part of his life.
“I’ve never really done Halloween, and I don’t plan to this year,” Muamba said.
He said that while his friends are excited to dress up and go trick-or-treating, he doesn’t feel the same pull. For Muamba, the holiday is more about watching others enjoy it than joining in himself.
“They’ll probably wear something funny, like one of them said they might go as a burger. I just don’t see the point for me,” he said.
Senior Gabriella Massino-Cohen said she sees Halloween as a chance to be social and creative.
“I’ll probably spend it with friends, maybe go to a party or even trick-or-treating,” she said.
For Massino-Cohen, the night is less about candy and more about being part of a shared experience with her friends. Her costume choice reflects her interest in online trends.
“I’m planning to wear a corset outfit, kind of like the Purge look that’s been all over TikTok,” she said.
Senior Chaitan Lachman is leaning into tradition with a classic character costume.
“I’m going as Scooby-Doo,” he said. Lachman said that the choice was partly for fun and partly for nostalgia. “Everyone knows Scooby-Doo, so it’s something people will recognize right away. Plus, it’s just a lighthearted way to enjoy the night,” he said.
He plans to attend a party with friends, where he expects to see a wide range of costumes.
Senior Patrick Mackey is taking a quieter approach. Instead of parties or costumes, he plans to watch “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” with his friends.
“It’s kind of a tradition,” Mackey said. “I like that it’s simple and something we can all enjoy together.” While some of his friends might head out to trick-or-treat or attend parties, Mackey said he prefers the comfort of tradition. “It doesn’t feel like Halloween without Charlie Brown,” he said.
Senior Jack James says he balances social time with tradition. “I’m having some friends over, and we’ll probably watch some scary movies,” James said.
He also says he plans to hand out candy to trick-or-treaters who stop by. “I don’t think I’ll dress up, but I still like being part of it.” he said.
For James, Halloween is less about costumes and more about creating a space to spend time with friends and neighbors.