Costume shops sprouting up in empty department stores, candlelit jack-o-laterns placed on doorsteps, leaves turning orange, all to celebrate the season of Halloween.
“I like Halloween because even as an adult, you get to dress up and nobody really says anything,” said freshman Richard Alexander, who is planning on being the Incredible Hulk for the holiday. “Celebrating is a tradition. I remember as a kid we would always go to the pumpkin patch and I would try to get the biggest pumpkin there.”
This Middle Age tradition is one that is celebrated by many due to its fun nature. Different Baker University groups are joining in on the fun, including Zeta Tau Alpha, Orchestra, SAC and the residence halls.
Irwin, Gessner, the NLC and the apartments are working together to create an event in the basement of Irwin. They are setting up a haunted house, starting in the game room through the laundry and study room. It will be held from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday and admission requires a food item for a local pantry.
Following the event, SAC will be sponsoring a pumpkin carving.
“It’s just an opportunity for students to enjoy a haunted house without the haunted house expresses,” Residence Assistant Denesha Jones said. “Students should expect fun, fright and excitement. The basement will be completely unrecognizable.”
Zeta Tau Alpha sorority members will be hosting a local event for kids of all ages, where families can come at 6 p.m. on Halloween to the chapter’s house for activities such as a haunted house, cookie decorating and coloring and candy. There will also be a donation option where proceeds go to breast cancer awareness.
“It’s a cool tradition that we have,” Zeta Tau Alpha sorority member Bekka Parker said. “It’s a community event where families can come together rather than separately going house-to-house. We want to bring people together to celebrate Halloween.”
Members of the Baker University Orchestra also helped spread the spirit through the community Friday and Saturday as they sold treats at the train station in accordance with Terror Train, an 11-mile haunted train ride at the Midland Depot. They sold cookies, pumpkin chocolate muffins, cider and more. Their proceeds go to fund trips and equipment.
“I plan on celebrating this holiday with candy and parties and dressing up,” Alexander said. “I think it is a good tradition and fun to let loose and feel like a kid again.”
