Halloween - America’s Greatest Holiday

OK, that might be a stretch as I also love Thanksgiving for the amazing food and because I was born on that day. There are many holidays that are worth celebrating, but for me, and dare I say many people of all ages, Halloween is a day I look forward to as soon as the leaves start changing and the first frost hits. I’m also not saying I loved Halloween just from ages 2-11, I’m saying this has been my holiday for as long as I can remember.  I actually question if I grew out my afro just so I had a ready-made costume - 70’s disco guy never gets old. 

Of course, my reason for loving it has changed over the years.  When I was really young it was all about the candy score.  The more the better. My goal was to struggle to carry my candy home because the bag was too heavy.  I was always partial to M&M’s and Twix but would settle for less.  I was never thrilled with the peanut butter cups, but those were always an easy trade. 

As I got older, it was still about the candy but hanging out with my friends became the real joy.  Having the freedom to wander the streets after dark laughing and goofing around was always a treat.  We weren’t much of a “trick” group, but that’s not to say it didn’t happen. 

In college the transition continued, and it became more about the amazingly fun parties and the ability to let the alter ego come out without consequence.  We have all done it, using this treasured American holiday as an excuse to behave in a way that would not have been in our normal daily routine.  I wish I was comfortable enough to act like I did on Halloween, every day, there is a real sense of freedom in it.  I know I’m not alone in thinking that.  Lowering your inhibitions is liberating at times, as long as you don’t take it too far. 

The joy surrounding Halloween continued to evolve once I had kids.  Not only do they give me a valid excuse to still dress up, but watching them enjoy Halloween and knowing that they will journey down a similar path brings a certain level of satisfaction and affirmation that I am doing my job as a parent.  Of course, this year our world is quite different, and October 31st will not look the same.  The kids will hang with just a few of their closest friends and I will be with a few of mine, sitting back and telling stories of Halloweens past and enjoying a few Crafthouse Cocktails.  Cheers to that and cheers to Halloween as we know it in 2021.

-Matt Lindner