The Puma’s Halloween Plans:

COVID-19 is forcing freshman Sinclaire Hicks to forgo her usual Halloween festivities.

“This year I won’t be able to go to the Georgetown Morgue, which was sort of a tradition I’ve had with my friends since sixth grade,” Hicks said.

The Georgetown Morgue and other Seattle haunted houses are temporarily closed due to COVID-19. Instead, Hicks is planning on a small get-together with her friends.

Math teacher David Peabody is not going to pass out candy to trick-or-treaters this year.

“Having a bowl of candy that people stick their hands into is very risky and would be inappropriate,” Peabody said.

However, Peabody, known for his creative and unique costumes in past years, will continue dressing up.

“I most look forward to dressing up,” Peabody said. “It is one of my favorite traditions. I have a lot of wigs and costumes from other years.”

Senior and ASB President Henry Buscher is planning for business as usual on Halloween.

“My family and I are going to decorate our house as always and watch a Halloween movie and bake some family desserts on the actual day,” Buscher said. “Depending on if trick-or-treating is still happening this year, my family will give [candy] out. But if it doesn’t, I was thinking of dropping off small bags of candy to my neighbors, most of whom have children, in a sort of reverse trick or treating.”

Buscher has a clear vision for his Halloween. As for UPrep’s Halloween assembly, the ASB President says they’re going to adapt to the circumstances.

“ASB is planning on replicating some of the games from previous years via Zoom,” Buscher said.

Buscher is also considering filming events in person.

   “Let’s just say we’re aiming to have an unorthodox assembly this year.”

Decoding the Cornmaze

Watch a scary movie

There is no better way to get into the spirit of spooky season than with a scary movie. Go for the classics, such as “Coraline,” “Scream” or the “Shining.” For something new, try “The Invisible Man” or “Color Out of Space.” Grab some popcorn, dim the lights and prepare to be scared.

Throw a Zoom Halloween party

Hang out with your friends virtually through a Zoom Halloween party. You can show off your costumes, play games or watch a movie. Just because you have to socially distance, does not mean you cannot socialize.

Make a Halloween dessert

While trick or treating may not be an option this year, satisfy your sweet tooth with a Halloween dessert. Some easy ideas include: ghost sugar cookies, Halloween candy bark, bat Oreo pops, brownie spiders and candy corn cupcakes.

Trip to the pumpkin patch

One good thing about this fall: the pumpkins are still growing. If you are looking to get outside, a pumpkin patch may be the way to go. Watch for restrictions on operating hours as well as activities and amenities offered. These may vary due to COVID-19 so do not forget your mask and your rain boots!

Decorate pumpkins

Decorating pumpkins is a classic way to get creative this Halloween. From smiling faces to spooky designs, there is something for everyone. Pick up pumpkins from a local pumpkin patch or grocery store and get to work!