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Saturday, November 7, 2009

Changing the Date of Halloween


Halloween, which was once an event reserved for children, has turned into a full fledged holiday. In fact, it's currently the sixth largest holiday for retailers - and gaining ground each year.  Now that it has become more of a party holiday for young adults as opposed to a couple of hours for children to beg for candy, there is a movement that is gaining ground to change Halloween from October 31 to the last Saturday in October.  The retail chain "Spirit Halloween" is petitioning Congress to endorse the change, although this is unnecessary since Halloween is not a federal holiday.  Those in favor of moving Halloween to the last Saturday in October say it will be more convenient as children and most parents would be off from school and work, and it will bring more revenue to costume shops, candy retailers, and even movie theaters - thus boosting the economy.  Opponents say the change is unnecessary as Halloween has always fallen on October 31 and should remain so, as the actual name comes from "All Hallows Eve" - meaning the night before All Saints Day.  Is this a great idea that will make life easier for parents and children along with giving retailers a little boost in a sluggish economy? Or is it another example of corporate greed stepping all over a beloved tradition? We asked our contributors to weigh in. After you've read what they think, be sure to leave a comment with your thoughts.