Five fun things to do this Halloween
Cam Mashak | Features editor
Halloween is here, and for many people, that means the big question “what should I do this year?”
Whether you’re looking for something spooky, social or just plain fun, there are plenty of ways to celebrate without breaking the bank or running out of ideas. Here are five things to do this Halloween in and around Augusta University.
1. Attend the Halloween party by the Center for Writing Excellence
Start your Halloween celebrations early with the Center for Writing Excellence’s annual Halloween party. The event will feature a costume contest, pumpkin decorating, Tarot card readings, snacks and more. The party begins at 8 a.m. on Oct. 31 and runs until 1 p.m., giving students plenty of time to stop by between classes.
The costume contest will have three winners, one in each category: Overall Best, Scariest and Most Creative. Participants can enter in person during the event or submit their costume virtually until 5 p.m. by emailing photos to cwe@augusta.edu.
The Center is also hosting a campus-wide scavenger hunt leading up to Halloween. Students can participate any time before Oct. 31 by following clues scattered across campus. Prizes and bragging rights await those who complete the challenge.
2. Join or host a Halloween party
If you prefer a livelier way to celebrate, you won’t have to look far. Various Halloween-themed parties are happening both on and off campus, hosted by fraternities, sororities and student organizations. Many of these gatherings are open to all students, so check social media or campus bulletin boards for details.
Of course, you can always host your own party. Whether it’s a small movie night or a full-blown costume bash, the possibilities are endless. Adding trending TikTok ideas—like themed photo booths, viral dance challenges or DIY decorations—can take your get-together to the next level.
3. Try TikTok Halloween trends
If you’d rather keep things cozy, the internet has no shortage of inspiration. TikTok and Instagram are full of creative Halloween ideas, from horror movie night setups and DIY costumes to spooky snack tutorials. You can find everything from “Halloween charcuterie boards” to recipes for pumpkin-shaped cookies or eerie cocktails.
Even if you’re not big on hosting, scrolling through Halloween trends can spark ideas for crafts, costumes or simple ways to make your night feel festive. A movie marathon with friends or roommates can be just as memorable as a night out.
4. Take advantage of Halloween food deals
If cooking isn’t your thing, Halloween still has treats in store—just of the edible kind. Many restaurants and fast-food chains are offering special deals for the holiday. Sonic is featuring .50¢ corn dogs all day on Halloween, though some locations may limit how many you can order.
Coffee lovers can swing by 7 Brew, which is offering four drinks for $16, perfect for sharing with friends or fueling up during late-night study sessions. Chipotle fans can also score a $6 entrée when they show up in costume and scan their rewards card at checkout.
To stay in the loop, check your favorite restaurants’ apps for Halloween-exclusive discounts and rewards. Many local spots are also running surprise deals, so it pays to keep an eye on social media.
5. Check out local Halloween events
If you want to go out but skip the trick-or-treating, several local businesses are getting in on the Halloween fun. Dave & Buster’s is hosting a costumed event featuring food and drink discounts for guests who show up in costume. Meanwhile, Stars and Strikes is offering its own twist on the holiday with a costume contest, themed games and spooky decorations throughout the night.
From student events to community hangouts, there’s something for every kind of Halloween fan this year. Whether you’re dressing up, dining out or staying in, the key is to make the most of the night and enjoy the spirit of the season.
Contact Cam Mashak at cmashak@augusta.edu.
