Earlier this fall, my son and I were walking through Lowe’s when we passed by one of the Halloween displays. Out of nowhere, a creepy pumpkin lit up and jumped. My son was so startled that he literally jumped back and wanted to get out of there as fast as possible.
And honestly? I don’t blame him.
That jumpy pumpkin reminded me that this isn’t the kind of “fun” I want for my kids. We don’t decorate our house for Halloween, and we’ve always tried to keep things light—but even then, it never really felt right. I can count on one hand the times I remember going trick-or-treating as a kid, and my husband’s family didn’t celebrate it at all.
Why We’re Choosing to “Shine a Light” This October
In the past, we’ve let the kids dress up and go trick-or-treating. It felt like “just what you do.” But lately, I’ve been noticing that the holiday has shifted into something darker.
Maybe you’ve seen it too. It’s not just about cute costumes and fun candy hauls anymore. In our neighborhood, there are often “adult tables” during trick-or-treating—complete with shots and other alcoholic beverages for parents. What might feel fun to some honestly just feels off to me.
And when you add in the fact that so many decorations are flat-out demonic, I can’t help but wonder: is this really the best way to spend our family’s evening? Or better yet, how does this align with what we teach our kids every day about God? Why is it okay to celebrate evil in this situation?
What the Bible Says About Darkness (And Light)
Halloween isn’t mentioned in the Bible, but Scripture is clear about where we stand as believers. Our decision isn’t about hiding away in fear; it’s about actively choosing to shine a light on October 31st and beyond.
- “Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.” (Ephesians 5:11)
- “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2)
- “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)
Our job isn’t to blend in—it’s to shine a light. We want to be intentional about building traditions that point our kids toward Christ.
4 Fun & Faith-Filled Alternatives for Christian Families
We’re stepping away from trick-or-treating altogether this year, but that doesn’t mean we’re ignoring Halloween altogether.
Here are a few faith-filled, family-friendly alternatives to consider:
1. Host a “Light the Night” Driveway Party
Instead of joining the trick-or-treating crowd, set up a beautifully lit table in your driveway. Hand out candy alternatives (like stickers, glow sticks, or small toys) with encouraging notes or Bible verses attached. You become a welcoming, positive spot on your street—a true light instead of blending into the darkness.
2. Make it a Service Night
Make October 31st a night of blessing others. Bake treats for neighbors and deliver them with a cheerful card, or put together care packages for a local homeless shelter or families who may be struggling. This refocuses the energy from “getting” to “giving”.
3. Embrace Church Fall Festivals
Many local churches host Harvest or Fall Festivals complete with hayrides, trunk-or-treats (with positive themes), game booths, and yummy snacks. These events are built specifically for Christian families to enjoy the fun side of the season without the darkness. Pro-tip: Look up the dates now, as they often happen on a weekend near Halloween.
4. Create a Family Tradition Night In
Carve pumpkins with crosses, hearts, or “Jesus is Light” themes instead of scary faces. Watch a family-friendly Christian movie, make popcorn, and spend quality time together. You can even start a tradition of reading a Scripture passage about light conquering darkness (like John 1:5).
Final Thoughts: Our Home is About Christ
I’m still figuring out exactly what this looks like for our family, but I know this: culture will not decide what we do. I want to raise kids who know that it’s okay to be different, to say no, and to shine light where others choose darkness.
Because at the end of the day, our home isn’t about pumpkins, candy, or costumes. Our home is about Christ.
Join the Conversation
What does your family do for Halloween? Do you celebrate, avoid it, or create your own traditions? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
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