As Halloween approaches, many Christian parents find themselves torn. Is this holiday simply harmless fun, or is it something darker—something to be avoided altogether? From cute costumes and candy to haunted houses and gory decorations, the celebration of Halloween can raise important questions for families who want to honor God in every aspect of their lives.
Some view Halloween as an innocent time for children to dress up, play games, eat candy, and feel a little spooky, while others see its origins and themes—death, fear, and evil supernatural forces—as problematic for Christians. I do not think this is an issue that should divide believers into camps. However, I do think it’s worth consideration.
In 2 Timothy 1:7, we’re reminded that “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but one of power, love, and sound judgment.” Fear is often at the core of Halloween imagery but we know that fear has no place in the lives of God’s children.
Similarly, 1 John 1:5 reminds us, “God is light, and there is absolutely no darkness in Him.” It seems helpful to ask ourselves whether our approach to Halloween primarily celebrates light or darkness.
These verses don’t imply we should lock our doors and shun our neighbors during Halloween. But I think we could be more intentional in how we engage with them at Halloween. Halloween also gives us great opportunities to open up conversations with our kids about hard topics like fear and death and even the powers of darkness.
Some families think the easy option is to hand out religious tracts in place of candy. In this way, they feel, they are shining light in the darkness. I tend to think that for a child this will feel more like a trick than a treat. In Matthew 7:9, Jesus asks, “Which of you, if your child asks for bread, will give him a stone?” Let’s not bait and switch our neighbors. If you feel called to give out something gospel-centered, please pair it generously with a sweet treat too.
Some families think most concerns about Halloween are silly or potentially damaging to our Christian witness. Halloween is a unique time when the entire community participates and welcomes each other onto their front porches. Why would we forfeit this opportunity to be generous and winsome to our neighbors? To meet them where they are spiritually and try to establish a relational connection with them?
Halloween is a tricky topic for Christians. Ultimately, each family has the freedom to decide how to approach this holiday. My prayer for us as Christ-followers is that we would honor God and be a light to the world.