Is it Halloween yet?!

It is a sweet treat that Halloween is on a Saturday this year but for many, Halloween is going to look different than a night of neighborhood trick-or-treating with the kids. ​

This doesn't mean Halloween needs to be cancelled, nor does it need to be filled with sugary treats. So pull those costumes out of the closet and get ready to make some spooky memories with these festive and healthy alternatives! 

1. Trick-or-treat trade. Many of us try to keep sugar out of the house and especially away from our kids. If you know it's inevitable that they will receive candy and sugary treats from friends or relatives this year, consider offering a trick-or-treat trade. Have your kids trade in their candy for something else fun like a small toy, book, stuffed animal, etc. This still lets them have the thrill of receiving candy and then the added bonus of trading it in for something that will last more than two bites and a sugar crash.  
2. Throw your own party. With Halloween falling on a Saturday this year, you have the whole weekend to celebrate! What a better way to celebrate than by making your own treats and hosting your own monster bash. Try making these veggie halloween bites, pumpkin pancakes, or monster mouths for the kiddos. We still believe in some treats this Halloween, like this sugar cookie recipe or these paleo ghost truffles. Just pick up some Ghost and Pumpkin cookie cutters and you'll be ready to go! 
3. Create some wicked crafts and play some ghoulish games. With a whole weekend for Halloween, we decided to go a little crazy with games and activities. Some of our top picks are: pin the tail on the black cat, glow stick pumpkin ring toss, ghost bowling, spooky crossword puzzles, and broomstick races. When you are ready for a little down time, instead of reaching for the tv remote, try one of these Halloween crafts (or make them with the kids beforehand to use as decorations!). Some of our favorites are: popsicle stick monsters, toilet roll mummies, pumpkins and vampires (oh my!), and pumpkin stress balls.

​Find all of these ideas and more on our Halloween Treats and Sweets Pinterest board. However you decide to celebrate this season, we wish you and your family a happy and safe Halloween night!

Websites
Make your own pin the tail on the black cat by following these simple instructions! Not only will it keep the kids entertained playing, but it keep them just as busy making the cat poster and cat tails! ​

Ideas
For all the Halloween treats and games in our post, go to our Halloween Treats and Sweets board on Pinterest to get inspired and craft your own haunted holiday!