What is Summerween? Halloween's Summer Sibling
When you think of Halloween, your mind probably jumps to chilly October nights, pumpkins on doorsteps, and the rustle of fallen leaves. But what if you could celebrate the spooky season twice a year? Enter Summerween.
What is Summerween?
Summerween is essentially Halloween’s summer sibling, celebrated by those who can’t wait a whole year to don costumes, carve pumpkins, and revel in spooky festivities. It’s an unofficial holiday, but its appeal is growing, especially among Halloween enthusiasts who crave a mid-year dose of eerie excitement. Typically observed in June or July, Summerween is all about merging the best of both worlds: the spooky charm of Halloween and the warm, vibrant energy of summer.
Origins and Popularity
The term “Summerween” gained popularity thanks to the animated TV show Gravity Falls. In the episode “Summerween,” the town celebrates a Halloween-like holiday in the middle of summer, complete with costumes, candy, and a monstrous trick-or-treater. This playful concept struck a chord with fans, and soon people began embracing the idea in real life.
While Gravity Falls might have popularized the term, the idea of a summer Halloween isn’t entirely new. Some communities and theme parks have been hosting “Halfway to Halloween” events for years, featuring haunted attractions and costume parties around the six-month mark from October 31st. Summerween takes this idea a step further, creating a full-fledged celebration complete with its own traditions and flair.
How to Celebrate Summerween
Celebrating Summerween can be as simple or elaborate as you like. Here are some fun ways to get into the spirit:
1. Horror Movie Marathons: Host a movie night featuring classic horror films or family-friendly spooky movies. Set up a projector outside for an open-air cinema experience, complete with popcorn and themed snacks.
2. Themed Decorations: Decorate your home or yard with a mix of Halloween and summer elements. Think skeletons lounging in beach chairs, tiki torches with jack-o’-lantern faces, and spooky fairy lights.
3. Pumpkin Carving: Pumpkins might be harder to come by in the summer, but you can get creative with alternatives like watermelons or even craft pumpkins. Carve out your favorite spooky designs and light them up with candles or LED lights.
Why Celebrate Summerween?
The appeal of Summerween lies in its ability to bring people together for a fun, unique celebration outside the usual holiday calendar. It’s a chance to enjoy the playful, imaginative aspects of Halloween without waiting until fall. Plus, it offers a creative way to break up the summer routine and add a dash of excitement to those long, sunny days.
Conclusion
Summerween is a delightful fusion of summer fun and Halloween chills, offering a second chance to enjoy the spooky festivities we love. Whether you’re carving watermelons, wearing a beach-themed costume, or watching horror movies under the stars, Summerween is all about having a good time and making new memories. So, why not embrace the whimsy and celebrate Halloween in July? After all, who says you can only be spooky in October?
