Quarantine-O-Ween Bash

Selecting a Halloween party theme sets the tone for your party, and helps focus and simplify planning.  I can’t wait to share some of my favorite Hallo-party themes, but let’s begin with one tailor made for this year.  

In early March, a movement started encouraging people to wear Halloween costumes and share pictures of themselves, March 31, on social media.  It was a brilliant idea to spread some joy and stave off boredom while many of us were hunkering down at home.

Since hosting a large indoor bash this year isn’t in the cards, this theme will make having a Halloween celebration for your immediate family a little less scary.  Since we’re living it anyway, host a Quarantine-O-Ween bash.

Costumes couldn’t be simpler, as anything goes.  If you already have a costume, wear it.  Or “dress up” in your funniest, most creative, or scariest face mask.  

Have a face mask decorating contest.  Award prizes for the prettiest, most original, or creepiest.  Here’s the Best Costume Trophy I awarded at last year’s party.  If you want to expand the costume contest, loop other friends or family into the party as guest judges via Zoom.

Decorate with creepy caution tape.  Michael’s has Assorted Caution Tape by Ashland with warnings like “Caution: Enter if You Dare,” and “Danger, Keep Out.” You can also snag some traditional black and yellow caution tape from your local box store and go wild!

Whip up some fun Halloween-themed party food.  One of the most popular foods at every costume party I’ve ever hosted, adult parties mind you, are Mummy Hot Dogs. We go through a few dozen each year.  I usually make half of them without cheese, and they can be assembled ahead of time and baked as needed.       

Another great party food, Bat Wings (aka barbecue chicken wings). Prepare a dozen or so and serve in a black plastic cauldron. For the full effect, don’t tuck the ends of the wings before cooking. 

For a fun activity, have everyone participate in a scavenger hunt.  Hide non-edible Halloween treats indoors. To turn the traditional trick-or-treat model upside down, make your ghouls and goblins hunt for their candy.

Wrap up the night with a scary, or funny, Halloween movie. 

Stay safe and enjoy your Quarantine-O-Ween.  In the near future, I’ll share tips on how to create a “Dead & Breakfast Inn” to die for.