Halloween treats, activities and craft favourites
IT’S officially “Spooky Season”, which means a month of horror movie marathons, telling scary stories, shopping for costumes and indulging in everything pumpkin spice flavoured in the build-up to Halloween on October 31.
Although the holiday originated in the US, all the festive fun has trickled over into other parts of the world, including here in South Africa. There are so many ways to celebrate.
Halloween themed treats
A big part of Halloween is definitely the food – especially if you prefer treats over tricks. Getting creative in the kitchen with spooky-themed dishes is a super fun way for children and parents to participate in the action.
Try out these nifty tricks for transforming ordinary dishes into something a little more festive.
Mummify everything
From hot dogs to cookies and even pretzel sticks, practically any food can take on a super scary mummy look with a little DIY skill. For sweet treats, fill a piping bag with either melted down white chocolate or buttercream frosting. Ice your treats using a zigzag motion to create the illusion of a bandaged mummy.
For savouries, like hot dogs or veggies, use thin strips of pastry for the wrapping and bake.
Fake blood
Raspberry jam and berry coulis
have an intensely red colour that perfectly mimics blood. Use the condiments to splash over baked goods like cupcakes and doughnuts for an extra gory finish. As a bonus, berries pair well with a variety of flavours, cutting the richness of vanilla, chocolate and butter, helping uplift all your sweet treats with a fresh fruity flavour. For savouries, you can’t go wrong with tomato sauce.
Googly eyes
Bring your creations to life with edible eyes. These can be purchased at bake ware stores, but if you prefer to get creative, make your own with icing or fondant; you can be even more elaborate with the detail. Pipe your eyeballs on to cupcakes, cookies, chocolate-dipped strawberries to see how they transform each dish. Not every Halloween treat needs two eyeballs. Just use one to create the illusion of a one-eyed monster.
Halloween crafts
Like with most other holidays, getting your home decorated is all part of the festivities. Bring colour, life and vibrancy into your home with these step-by-step DIY decor activities the kids will absolutely love.
Pumpkin decorating
Pumpkin carving is a huge part of the Halloween festivities. However, not super safe for younger children. So, why not try pumpkin painting instead?
WHAT YOU NEED
Pumpkins Acrylic paints Stickers Glitter Markers