Halloween is an economic success across the United States as many people buy costumes, candy and decorations yearly.
According to the National Retail Federation, 72 percent of all consumers are planning to celebrate Halloween this year.
WorldHistory.org states: “Halloween is among the oldest traditions in the world as it touches on an essential element of the human condition: the relationship between the living and the dead.”
As reported by Statista.com, during the 2024 season of Halloween, U.S. consumers are expected to spend about $3.5 billion on candy.
Keene State students were asked their thoughts about Halloween. Some students feel passionate about dressing up and expressing themselves during this holiday.
“I like to dress up and do friend costumes which is really fun,” said first-year Maggie Nelson.
First-year Brooklyn Hopkins said, “I like dressing up and the thrill of getting scared.”
First-year Allana Poehler said, “I love to dress up and carve pumpkins.”
“I’m dressing up with what I have, it’s fun to see what people are dressing as,” said first-year Kaylie Tennant. “It’s a fun atmosphere with Pumpkinfest, and it’s a nice way to romanticize the season.”
Senior Justin Shaffer said, “It is fun and I like when everyone gets to dress up however they like to dress up.”
“I like dressing up and I like getting to socialize with people” said junior Stephen Grogan. “I like watching scary movies with my girlfriend.”
Several Keene State students love the nature of the holiday and the time of year that Halloween falls on.
“I like spending time with friends, watching movies, and baking Halloween cookies.” Junior Grace Abbott said.
Sophomore Laurel Feindel said, “I love fall as a season, so Halloween is the perfect time and I love the community and I love candy.”
“I really like the costumes and I like the celebratory aspect of the holiday,” said junior Ella Sirois. “I think it is fun for people to get together and celebrate.”
Other students enjoy the holiday for its deeper meaning that goes beyond the costumes and candy.
“Halloween gives people a chance to let loose and be themselves. It brings us back to when we were kids,” said sophomore Sage Labbe. “It is a really fun holiday because it gives people a thrill-seeking mentality.”
Junior Anna White said, “It’s my favorite holiday, and I like to watch scary movies because my mom and I like to watch them together. It becomes our thing in October.”
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