Despite what appeared to be an early victory for the Czech Republic, due to a proactive Covid-19 response, the country recently experienced a sharp increase in cases. As of this week the country’s rate of infection is 433 cases per 100,000 people, the highest in the European Union according to the Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.
In another attempt to slow the rapid spread the Czech government is imposing a three-week partial lockdown that will shut down schools, bars and clubs. The initiative will also implement new mask-wearing measures and ban public alcohol consumption. As of October 14, in compliance with the lockdown, all restaurants moved to take-away and delivery service only and began closing at 8 p.m. The measures are set to end November 3. Unfortunately this means Halloween, on October 31, will have to be celebrated differently than in years past.
Although, this spooky night will not be spent roaming the streets of Prague while visiting clubs, pubs and carnivals, it’s still possible to enjoy the holiday – quarantined. Here are a plethora of activities for a scary, socially-distanced Halloween:
- Ghosting or “boo-ing” friends
The concept of “boo-ing” friends is pretty simple: fill a basket with Halloween-themed treats and gifts, then secretly leave it on the front porch of a family member or friend. The person who has been “boo-ed” leaves a similar gift on the porch of someone else, and they pass on the favor to the next person. Not only is this a simple way to get into the holiday spirit, it’s also a fun guessing game and an easy way to get a community together without any contact.
- Virtual Tarot Card Reading
To add a hint of mystery to a Halloween evening, light some candles and perform a Tarot Card reading at home using one of many virtual Tarot Card websites or cards from home. For a unique experience, hire a psychic reader that performs readings over zoom or other platforms.
- Watching scary movies
Nothing says Halloween like scary movies, so this is a no brainer. The original Halloween and Friday the 13th are two classics to spice up a quarantined Halloween. Both films will, no doubt, spook the audience and are two of the most stereotypical (and classic) horror movies.
- Halloween themed snacks
Of course there are the typical Halloween snacks such as candy corn; however, with the extra time available, DIY Halloween themed snacks are an opportunity to get creative. Pinterest is filled with cute, spooky ideas that are best enjoyed while watching one of the movies listed above.
- Virtual Halloween cocktail party
Being quarantined is an isolating experience, especially on a holiday that is typically enjoyed with friends and family. Make a themed cocktail and snacks, then join a Zoom or group FaceTime with some friends. This is a simple way to catch up and bring some joy into an otherwise spooky night.
- Spooky walk through Prague
Despite Prague being known for its beautiful cobblestone streets and architecture, Czech land is full of legends of ghosts of the night. The Vysehrad area is reportedly filled with haunted spots; most notably, the walls are haunted by the ghost of a French major from the siege of 1741. One of the most terrifying locations in Europe, is located in Prague. Belonging to the now closed Bohnice Psychiatric Hospital, the “cemetery of fools” has a spooky aura where over 4300 paitents were laid to rest. There are many more locations in the city to visit, but make sure to bring a mask.
- Carving Pumpkins
This Halloween tradition is a must! Carving pumpkins is a creative activity to add to a virtual cocktail party. When the pumpkins are finished, place them on the front porch or balcony to bring some spooky spirit to the neighborhood.
Although this is not the ideal way to begin the holiday season, there are still plenty of ways to stay in the spooky spirit of Halloween. But most importantly, however it’s spent, make sure to stay safe, healthy and socially-distant!
