Celebrating Halloween during a pandemic is not something Americans have experienced before. The combination of masks, social distancing, and necessary safety precautions mean that the festivities have been greatly impacted- including a cornerstone of the holiday, trick or treating. Many typical ways Americans celebrate Halloween- including trick or treating, visiting haunted houses, and Halloween parties- are activities that lead to a high risk of exposure to COVID-19. However, the tradition of wearing Halloween costumes has not been impacted by the pandemic- although the costume trends this year will definitely reflect the current American culture. For example, the company Spirit Halloween ha

s released their own line of halloween-themed face masks, many of which can be paired with a costume. 

One Halloween phenomenon that’s already appeared this year is the “Karen Mask”. Made by the artist Jason Adcock, these masks were meant to mock the white, privileged, upper class “Karens” that many resent (NY Post). Some might dress up as “Karens” even without using the mask, due to the way “Karens” have been portrayed in American culture in the past year. 

Costumes from the hit television show Tiger King might also make an appearance, hailing back towards the trends at the beginning of quarantine (NJ.com). Fans could dress up as Carol Baskin, Joe Exotic, or a tiger. One website even has an official set of Tiger King costumes. 

Many this year are also sure to wear costumes inspired by the characters in the game “Among Us”, who are dressed as single-colored astronauts. The simplicity of the costumes, combined with the game’s quick rise to popularity, are sure to make them a hit this year- some have even created costume guides for “Among Us” fans.

Others plan to dress up as healthcare workers (NJ.com). This is a way to honor them for all of the work they’ve done to keep America safe during this pandemic. An added plus is how the costume goes perfectly with a surgical mask, so trick-or-treaters can stay safe during the holiday too.

Overall, costumes this year are sure to cause delight and surprise among all ages come Halloween. Despite the current situation, it’s still possible to have fun and be festive during this holiday. Just stay safe, sane, and socially distant.