The annually celebrated holiday in October, known as “Halloween,” feels like walking through a graveyard. What was once a day that everyone looked forward to when the cold weather hit, transformed into just another day in October. But why does it feel so dead? There’s a multitude of factors, but we’ve narrowed it down to 4 key factors: Price, Pandemics, Safety Concern, and Embarrassment.
Currently, there is a 20% tariff on imported Chinese goods, meaning that Chinese products have risen in price in the American market. “The 10 percent tariffs on all imports from China took effect on February 4th, 2025. On February 27th, Trump said the tariffs on China would increase by another 10 percent beginning March 4th, which has taken effect.” highlights Tax Foundation.
As a result, companies nationwide have either reduced or eliminated their Chinese products from their stores. This trade war is impacting the average consumer. About 85% of Halloween costumes are imported from China, according to The Century Foundation. This extra cost has discouraged participation in the holiday because it’s beating their pockets for costumes, arguably the most integral part of Halloween.
Looking to the past, many may mark the end of Halloween’s reign because of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. This global issue left people confused about what to do with their time on October 31st, 2020. Naturally, most stayed indoors, but even after the masks came off, the pandemic mindset didn’t go away. This year alone, a study conducted by Civic Science, 35% of Americans prefer to stay home rather than go out. The large decline in outgoing activities has resulted in decreased Halloween participation. Once, sidewalks overflowed with children, porch lights glowed orange throughout the night, and neighbors competed for the best Halloween display. Now, empty streets mark the night, and houses are deprived of the festive decorations. The death of Halloween isn’t just about candy; it’s about the fading sense of community defined by its witty traditions.
Similar to the COVID-19 pandemic, there are many safety concerns when it comes to trick-or-treating. Receiving delicious candy from random strangers can be off-putting for those who question the trustworthiness of the concerned parents. Halloween is typically an activity that involves children under the age of 18, who still need permission from their parents. According to the Huff Post, only about 15% of parents allow their children ages 11-13 to go trick-or-treating without an adult.
Alongside economic pressure, teens find themselves struggling with societal expectations. As a teenager, many find the easiest way to find in and with the skyrocketing of social media, sticking out has never been such a socially deadly choice. Whether you’re wearing a silly costume or have eccentric facetime, teens can find themselves in fear of being posted online without consent. The spirit of Halloween, that is rooted in humorous outfits and scary looks, is overpowered by the fear of embarrassment.
The vibrant tradition of Halloween cannot accommodate modern pressures. The rising prices of costumes, candies, and decorations make the holiday a financial burden to families across the nation. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has made many teens reconsider their participation in the holiday after being enclosed in their homes for a year and a half. Ultimately, the holiday carries a sense of embarrassment, making the tradition more awkward than thrilling. Altogether, these factors are altering the infamous holiday from an amusing and bone-chilling holiday to a tedious day that people struggle to avoid
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