Daily Advertiser editorial: Halloween's a winner, like it or not

It wouldn't have been October 31 (and the lead-up to it) without the incessant - and predictable - debate around Halloween.

It's too American. It's too commercialised. All that sugar's unhealthy. It's rude to knock on doors without notice. Stranger danger. And, in 2020, coronavirus.

But it's also something that brings people together: families spending time putting up decorations, putting the finishing touches on costumes, meeting old friends or making new ones to go trick or treating with, and hopefully getting to know neighbours more on their quest for treats.

In a year when many have craved connection more than ever, Halloween could've been just the ticket to sparking some joy, even if just for a day.

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You'd have to admit that looking on, even if you're not a fan of the occasion, those who really get into the black and orange-hued decorations and ghoulish garb sure look like they're having a blast.

When a gaggle of tiny witches cackling their way through the streets are joined by miniature superheros ready to launch into action at any moment, it's hard not to smile.

The delighted excitement on their little faces as they spot a home with a headstone out the front, or giant green cobwebs strewn across the fence - those trick or treaters know when they're about to strike gold.

Then there's the (possibly weary) pride that comes after the panic for parents as they pull together yet another costume for the year.

The shrieks of sugar fans as lollies - wrapped, of course, we're still in a pandemic after all - drop into tiny pumpkin-shaped buckets or upturned witches' hats.

It's enough to make even the most hardened Halloween-hater run inside and raid the lolly jar just in case they get a knock at the door.

Because after all, who are we to get in the way of a little happiness?