Why You Can Hate Horror But Still Enjoy Halloween

This weekend, people across the United States will be trick-or-treating, dressing up and going to haunted houses or watching a horror film for a good scare. For many adults without kids, the last option is considered the only "normal" thing to do on Halloween in order to enjoy yourself. Why is that? Sure, there are parties you could attend or candy to hand out, but is that all we are allowed to do?

I am one of the many people who does not enjoy horror movies. A thriller every now and again is nice, but there is no way you will ever get me to watch "The Shining" without losing a tooth. I respect the people who enjoy horror, but to me it's a bit silly. We literally want to be scared out of our wits to experience an adrenaline rush that our predecessors used to escape real danger. I would rather read some terrifying Grimm's Fairy Tales thank you very much.

To be fair, the main aspect of Halloween has to do with the things that go bump in the night. These creatures are also the main plot point for countless horror films like "The Haunting" or "The Blair Witch Project." They are also a great outlet for many people to showcase their talents. However, deeming horror the only way to enjoy Halloween as an adult is not true.

As a 20-year-old who walked into Waffle House last year dressed as the 11th Doctor, I don't really care about what people think on Halloween. Sure, the holiday is full of creatures that have inspired horror, but it also has a middle ground between horror and super sweet kids trick-or-treating. There are less scary movies like "Beetlejuice" that give you the taste of Halloween's magic without being hide-behind-your-couch scary. This magic can be channeled in other ways, like the awesome costume you come up with for a party or the spinning of tales around a campfire.

This Halloween, I hope all of you stay safe and have fun. Whether fun for you is an epic adventure with your friends at a Haunted House or marathoning "The Nightmare Before Christmas." Just remember that this holiday is for everyone to enjoy.

Happy Halloween!