FAM I LY F U N
by Ann Marie Kennon ∙ annmarie@myjarrell.com
Getting in the Spirit-s
W
hile being "ghosted" by a sweetheart is a bad thing, and those playing a spectator sport or performing on a stage have always disliked being "boo'ed, " this Halloween tradition is actually a simple demonstration of friendship and neighborly good will.
BOO! Booing is a Halloween tradition of surprising neighbors with treats during the month leading up to the holiday. It usually begins in late September, ends Halloween night, and has been proliferating in the United States since the early 1980s. The game goes by many names, depending on location, including "Ghosting", "Spooking", and "Hobgobling." Technology has made it much more simple to Boo someone, and social media sharing has helped to bring much more attention to the craze. The ease of printing signs and easy online sharing has helped the game become more popular and widespread in recent years. It has even grown to the point that stores like Target and Etsy sell ready-to-go and personalized "You've Been Boo'ed" gift boxes to make it even easier to play the game.
PLAYING THE GAME Families sneak special treats onto neighbors' or friends' porches after dark with a note attached saying "You've Been Boo'ed". That family is asked to "boo" another family or two, spreading the fun. After being boo'ed, the family is supposed to hang a ghost in their window to signify they have already been "boo'ed." Boo-ing is also another means of allowing children and families to celebrate Halloween together. Concerns about safety, too much sugar, and unfamiliarity in new neighborhoods has led many communities to favor chaperoned parties or Griswold-style haunted houses, and Trunk-or-Treat events over the traditional October 31 door knocking. EDITOR NOTE: For some, if Boo-ing feels like another task to add to your already-busy list, we suggest putting up a "We've been Boo'ed flyer right away.
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O C TO B E R 2 021 M Y JA R R ELL M O NT HLY
"Mom Tribe Jarrell" has already kicked off a "Boo" game so be sure to visit their Facebook group to get all the details and join in the fun. To join the group, simply answer a couple of questions about your family, and the admins will add you to the Tribe.
