While most Halloween traditions remain the same the Centers for Disease Control is recommending some extra safety tips this year in an effort to battle the coronavirus.
This year people aren’t only choosing their costumes but also the face mask. Retailers say they are seeing a difference in shopping habits this year as a result of the virus.
“I think we will see more doctor’s and nurse’s costumes sold this year because the mask is included,” said Brandi Jane, an associate at Party City in Citrus Park. “I also see people buying costumes of characters from TV shows because that’s all people had when they were stuck inside.”
Jane pointed out that one of the most popular costumes this year is Joe Exotic from the Netflix Original Series, Tiger King. Tiger King was a show that became popular during the coronavirus lockdown.
The CDC has guidelines in place regarding Halloween and face masks with costumes.
“A costume mask (such as for Halloween) is not a substitute for a cloth mask,” the CDC says. “Do not wear a costume mask over a protective cloth mask because it can be dangerous if the costume mask makes it hard to breathe. Instead, consider using a Halloween-themed cloth mask.”
As a result of these new guidelines, the trend has now shifted toward Halloween themed face masks. People can go online and purchase themed masks, such as a Jack-O-Lantern or creepy character, just like they would any other face mask.
Tampa Day School science teacher Megan Mahoney believes that this trend more with older students more so than younger students.
“Well, the kids and myself, we wear masks all day, so I honestly don’t think the kids have thought of their costume around their mask,” said Mahoney.
The popular women’s fashion magazine Cosmopolitan came out with an article in late September regarding this topic. It, too, discussed the CDC guidelines regarding masks for Halloween and had linked people to find different types of themed masks for purchase.
Just like every other event that has taken place during the coronavirus pandemic, Halloween is going to look different this year. Luckily, people are creative enough to find new ways to adapt to the times of social distancing and mask wearing in such a way that they can still have fun and celebrate their favorite holidays.
