It’s the time of year when everyone gets a chance to walk around in another person’s (or critter’s) shoes, and we want to see what personas you’ve chosen to take on.

Historically, costumes were worn on Halloween because people celebrated the holiday by dressing up like the scary ghouls and goblins traditionally associated with it. Throughout the last century, though, mass media has made it common practice to encourage everyone to become whatever character they choose.

It was great last weekend to see all the youngsters parading around at the local costume parades and fun events offered by area civic organizations.

But as recent research has shown, the kiddos aren’t the only ones donning costumes and going out to enjoy a good time. Sixty-four percent of adults surveyed by PsychologyToday.com said they dressed up and attended some Halloween function or another last year — and we think that’s great!

Aside from religious concerns and the potential safety risks that accompany Halloween, there are a lot of great reasons to celebrate the holiday in true American fashion (i.e. in costume).

First of all, when else do you get the opportunity to be anyone you want to be? Costumes let you show off your personality — whether you’re portraying your favorite television character, mocking your least favorite politician or dressing up to make a statement.

Second, dressing up allows you to be creative. So many people (especially adults) have abandoned the practice of purchasing pre-made Halloween costumes, and instead buy pieces of them from thrift stores, or completely create them from scratch. So for those people, wearing costumes is like showing off wearable art.

Plenty of people bond while wearing group costumes, too. We’ve already had one photo submitted of a family full of Ninja Turtles, and plenty of dynamic duos are sure to fill Halloween parties and doorsteps for trick-or-treat this weekend.

With all that said, we want to see what you have come up with this year for Halloween. Send a picture of you or your children all dressed up to news@leaderpub.com, and we’ll enter you for a chance to win our costume contest.

Costume contest winners will be awarded for the cutest costume and scariest costume, and those who feel compelled to dress up their yards have a chance to win, too. Send us a picture of your house or yard decorated for Halloween, and we’ll enter you in the contest.

Winners of each category will win a $50 gift card.

Entrants can submit no more than one entry per category, and all entries must be submitted by 5 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 3.

Check out Off the Water next Thursday, Nov. 5, to find out the winners.

We can’t wait to see what you come up with. Have a safe and fun Halloween!

 

Opinions expressed are those of the editorial board consisting of Publisher Michael Caldwell and editors Ambrosia Neldon, Craig Haupert, Ted Yoakum and Scott Novak.