Yes, Australia Should Celebrate Halloween, If Only to Distract from Exams

Don’t be a killjoy. Let us have our fun.

Halloween is often associated with horror, ghosts and witches, but in reality, it’s a time of unity, relaxation and a brief moment of celebration in a season where most are shuddering under the pressures of school and work.

Halloween appeals to all audiences, unifying all to come under the banner of spooky costumes and trick or treating. For example, those who decide to stay at home and give candy to costumed kids are given the opportunity to learn more about their neighborhood and achieve that warm feeling of making a child’s night.

And those who decide to dress up are given an opportunity to show off their creative flair, even when their lifestyles may not usually call for it.

Just today, I was fundraising in the city when a suited man who looked ready for his office job came to talk, and he expressed his excitement for a Halloween party that night. He ecstatically showed us his just-purchased costume, which only confirmed my belief that Halloween as a holiday brings so much joy and creativity. So, why wouldn’t it be a shared tradition in Australia?

Halloween’s convenient date on October 31 also gives Australia more of a reason to celebrate it than most nations, seeing how this is such a stressful time for high school students.

During this period of the school year, exams are nigh, and with them comes anxiety and hours of study. Halloween is one much-needed night off; it gives us an excuse to spend time with friends and family.

Some argue Halloween has no place in Australian culture and should remain solely an American event. But just like any other event in Australia, we definitely give Halloween a unique flair. For instance, think of the sweet Australian lollies! I mean, why would we ever give up those chocolate koalas? Much like how we Australians celebrate a toasty Christmas as opposed to a snowy one, we make all events our own, and Halloween's no different.

Historically, Halloween originates from ancient Celtic religions in the United Kingdom. Well, America has long-been independent from Britain, so why else would they celebrate Halloween with such vigour other than for fun, memories and creativity?

Following that line of thought, why not us too? At this time of year, we need it.

Congratulations to Daphne for winning this week's writing challenge: Should Australia Celebrate Halloween? Daphne wins a $50 Westfield gift card for her submission. For your chance to win, check out our latest writing challenges in our Competitions section. Also, be sure to follow this guide on how to win the writing challenge!

Photo: iStock.com/sandsun