Formerly the celebration of choice for students and children, it is now perfectly acceptable for fully grown adults and those who should know better to don their finest vampire/ghost/giant squirrel costume and head out in public without even the slightest trace of shame. Always big in the States, where they have whole theme parks dedicated to it, it is now taking off in the UAE, with several hotels hosting their own spooky themed events. But for those on a budget, or for people who just want a more intimate gathering with close friends, having a party at home can be just as much fun. Want to get in on the act? We thought you might, so here’s our guide to throwing the perfect Halloween bash.
Food and drink
Stuffing yourself silly on chocolate and sweets is what Halloween is all about. Carrefour and Spinneys will stock most of what you’re looking for in terms of sweets, snacks and fizzy drinks, but you also need to make sure your guests have something substantial to nibble on. Try www.celebrations.com for some spooky cupcake recipes and designs that are simple to make and bound to impress. Not a whizz in the kitchen? No matter, the joy of Halloween is that it’s meant to be scary. In terms of food, this can often translate to just plain gross, so bring out that terrifying mess you’ve lovingly crafted to the table, and watch your guests go wild.
Decor
The classic jack-o’-lantern can really give your home that Halloween feel, just choose your pumpkin, carve it up, light the candle and turn the lights down low for that haunted house atmosphere. Money-saving suggestions include draping white sheets over the furniture for that abandoned house feel (that also solves the problem of messy guests). You can also hit the supermarkets and get creative with crepe paper and balloons. Or, if you’re keen to stock up, head to www.balloonladyuae.com. This Dubai-based store (Jumaira Beach Road, Jumaira Plaza; 04 3441062) stocks a range of balloons for seasonal celebrations, starting at Dhs5 per balloon. Either collect your order or have them delivered to Abu Dhabi for Dhs250. If you’re planning to go all out, hit the Halloween superstore at the Party Centre (Al Raha Mall; 02 556 5563), which stocks anything and everything with a Halloween theme.
Costume
Don’t be that person who stands around, chilling with a beverage and ghost-shaped sandwich, wearing a designer outfit and a smug look that reads ‘I don’t do costumes’. Your guests will be much more comfortable if you look as ridiculous as they do. Posters (Al Wahda Mall; 02 443 7070) stocks all the witches costumes and scary masks you could ever need, and Hallmark does a small line of kids’ costumes and trick or treat bags. Can’t find the right costume for you? Get creative and make your own. Check out Abu Dhabi’s lone thrift store (St Andrew’s Church; 02 446 4193) and you could get lucky with a low-cost, guilt-free costume solution. With charity shops in short supply, however, there is always the fabric store for anyone willing to put a little time and effort into their outfit. Madinat Zayed (Al Muroor Road; 02 633 3311) has a wealth of fabric stores for creative types to browse. Suitable make-up is also essential to looking the part. Head down to Inglot (Abu Dhabi Mall; 02 443 7070) where they boast the ability to mix up a billon shades. Put them all on your face at once and you’ll definitely terrify.
Four steps to a great pumpkin
Choose your weapon
You will need a sharp knife and a pumpkin. Head to the market or supermarket to pick up the right one for you
Hollow it out
Cut the top off your pumpkin and use a spoon to scoop out the flesh
Choose your design
Head to familycrafts.about.com where you can download free stencils. Print the design and pin to your pumpkin
Make the cut
Cut out your design and put a candle inside to show off all your hard work
