When I was growing up in the 90s, I dreamt of having a proper Halloween celebration in the Philippines. I wished there were Halloween decorations, toys, and candies in stores. I didn’t know if it was already a thing in Metro Manila back then (or other parts of the country), but we sure didn’t have it in my hometown. For those who didn’t know (and I’m sure you don’t), Halloween is my favorite holiday.
While we didn’t have a Halloween celebration at that time, the idea of having a fun trick-or-treat evening out with friends came from the cartoon shows I watched in the 90s. Think of Yogi Bear, The Ruff & Reddy Show, The Huckleberry Hound Show, The Flintstones, etc. I think I was just watching too many cartoons on TV at that time, but I thought dressing up in costumes, putting up Halloween decorations, and having lots of candies were extremely exciting.
Nevertheless, I was also happy with all the horror-themed shows and movies shown on TV. I looked forward to Magandang Gabi Bayan on ABS-CBN. I think I have been watching it since I was in Grade 2, and only stopped when the show folded in the mid-2000s.
I also loved the horror stories that I used to share with my classmates in elementary school. When the All-Saints’ Day school break was about to approach, classes would be laxer. We’d spend hours exchanging urban legends and terrifying stories from around our hometown, which were, of course, passed on to us by our lolos and lolas.
Traditionally, we would also visit our loved ones who have passed on in the cemetery. I wouldn’t let the moment pass without fueling my imagination and hearing more frightening stories from my aunts and cousins as we made balls out of melted candles.
Fast forward to today, I’m happy seeing my kids enjoying themselves as they go to Halloween parties. Honestly, I kind of enjoy these things myself even if I were already an adult. I love toys, candies, decors, costumes, and the whole Halloween vibe!
Also, since Halloween is just around the corner, I think I’ll begin sharing more Halloween-themed stories here.
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