Halloween is an exciting annual celebration that combines fright and fun in equal measure. Held on the 31st of October, Halloween started as a Celtic harvest festival. It later gained root in the United States where people celebrated by Trick-or-treating, lighting bonfires and holding costume parties. This festivity has become so popular that it’s even taking foot in Europe. In Italy, Halloween (locally known as All Saints’ Eve) has gained wide popularity in recent years. The Italians celebrate a little differently from other countries, using Halloween decorations and costumes to spice up the festival.
Here are five tips you can borrow to liven up your Halloween office party:
1. Use decorations
It's crucial to pick the appropriate Halloween decorations if you genuinely want to host an electrifying Halloween party in your office. The Italians, for instance, use a vast assortment of decorations during Halloween – including the red, white and green paper lanterns. They also use printed Gingham table runners as well as various Italian cut-outs. You can get creative by customising your Halloween decorations. Use the different suggestions offered by your workmates to create new decorations.
2. Prepare the appropriate food and drinks
The humble pumpkin is the universal Halloween holiday symbol, so it isn't surprising that majority of cuisines are prepared using pumpkins. In Venice and other Italian towns, pumpkin recipes abound during Halloween. They include the excellent Bruschetta con Zucca e Buffala and the Risotto di Zucca (pumpkin Risotto). Sgroppino is a favorite drink among the Italians during Halloween, and so is the Italian Spritz. Other beverages that you could prepare for your Halloween office party include Fall Apple Pumpkin Shandy as well as Butterbeer. And if you're predicting some cold weather, make some kind old-fashion Hot Chocolate.
3. Pick creative Halloween costumes
Halloween is the only holiday that allows you to dress a bit crazy. Think outside the box and come up with an outfit that will make people gag with awe. If you're in Italy, you could wear a Roman Warrior costume to honor the gallant soldiers who fought many wars in the past. Ladies have a plethora of Halloween costume dresses they can choose, including cosplay costumes and fancy inflatable dresses. If you desire to wear something edgy, pick a cheesy pizza hat or a bloody stripped shirt. You could even paint your body red and frighten people around the office.
54. Choose the right music
Eerie music sets the appropriate tone required during Halloween. There’s an assortment of spooky music you can download, so ensure you create a playlist before the main event. The unlucky Italian day (Venerdi 17) is a great song to include in your Halloween music mix. Try choosing songs that are both spooky and fun – employees will love it immensely. Remember, this is not the time to select your favorite RnB songs. The aim is to instil excitement and fright.
5. Plan interesting games
Plan several interactive games to play during your Halloween party. One favorite game is the Passage of Terror. You could light Jack-o’-Lanterns and sing Halloween songs if you’re in the mood, or you could play an interesting game of Truth or Dare. Choose some crazy; no holds barred games while ensuring that you don't go overboard. There's also the option of watching a spooky Halloween horror flick as a team.