Halloween and Thanksgiving, two widely celebrated holidays, may seem distinct at first glance, but they actually share some interesting similarities. Understanding the history and traditions of each holiday can shed light on these connections, as well as highlight the key differences between them.
Starting with Halloween, it has a rich history with ancient Celtic origins and pagan traditions. Over time, it evolved into a holiday associated with costumes, trick-or-treating, and spooky decorations. On the other hand, Thanksgiving has its roots in the harvest festivals of Europe and the traditions brought by the Pilgrims to America. It is a time for expressing gratitude and gathering with loved ones to enjoy a hearty meal.
Despite their different origins, Halloween and Thanksgiving do share some similarities. Both holidays are celebrated during the autumn season, with Halloween falling on October 31st and Thanksgiving typically observed on the fourth Thursday in November. They both involve the gathering of family and friends, who come together to create lasting memories. Both holidays feature seasonal themes and decorations such as pumpkins, autumnal colors, and festive displays. Food plays a significant role in both celebrations, with Halloween offering treats and sweets, while Thanksgiving is known for its bountiful feasts. Both holidays encourage expressions of gratitude, whether it’s through saying “thank you” on Thanksgiving or by dressing up as something you appreciate on Halloween.
There are distinct differences between Halloween and Thanksgiving as well. The purpose and significance of the holidays vary greatly, with Halloween focusing on fun, escapism, and embracing the supernatural, while Thanksgiving centers around gratitude, reflection, and the historical significance of the Pilgrims and Native Americans. The cultural and historical backgrounds of the holidays differ greatly. Halloween has Celtic and pagan roots, while Thanksgiving has a historical connection to early American settlers and indigenous communities. The types of activities and traditions associated with each holiday also diverge, with Halloween featuring costume parties, haunted houses, and trick-or-treating, while Thanksgiving is characterized by family meals, football games, and volunteer work. The symbolism and icons associated with the holidays are also distinct, with Halloween evoking images of ghosts, witches, and jack-o’-lanterns, and Thanksgiving featuring harvest symbols like turkeys, pumpkins, and cornucopias.
Key takeaway:
- Halloween and Thanksgiving have similarities in terms of celebration timing, with both holidays occurring in the fall season.
- Both holidays emphasize the importance of family and friends gathering together to celebrate.
- Halloween and Thanksgiving share seasonal themes and decorations, such as pumpkins, autumn leaves, and harvest motifs.
- Festive food and drinks play a significant role in both Halloween and Thanksgiving celebrations.
- Expressing gratitude is a common aspect of both holidays, whether through giving thanks or showing appreciation.
History of Halloween
Photo Credits: Rickyshalloween.Com by Charles King
Uncover the fascinating history of Halloween as we dive into its intriguing origins and captivating traditions. From ancient beliefs to modern-day celebrations, we’ll unravel the spooky and mysterious roots of this beloved holiday. Get ready to explore the captivating world of Halloween as we delve into its rich history, unearthing captivating tales and intriguing customs that have been passed down through generations. Are you ready to take a thrilling journey through the dark corners of Halloween’s past? Let’s go!
Origins and Traditions
The origins and traditions of Halloween and Thanksgiving can be understood through a comparison of their historical backgrounds, activities and traditions, symbolism and icons.
Halloween originated from the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. Its traditions include dressing up in costumes, going trick-or-treating, carving pumpkins, and telling scary stories. The symbolism and icons associated with Halloween include witches, ghosts, black cats, and jack-o’-lanterns.
Thanksgiving has its roots in a harvest festival celebrated by the Pilgrims in 1621. The traditions of Thanksgiving include gathering with family and friends for a festive meal, expressing gratitude, and sometimes volunteering or giving back to the community. The symbolism and icons associated with Thanksgiving include turkeys, cornucopias, pumpkins, and the colors of autumn.
History of Thanksgiving
Unravel the captivating journey of Thanksgiving as we explore its fascinating history. Delve into the origins and traditions that have shaped this beloved holiday. Learn intriguing facts, discover the historical significance, and uncover the unique customs associated with Thanksgiving. Get ready to immerse yourself in a time-honored celebration that has brought families together for generations.
Origins and Traditions
Halloween and Thanksgiving have deep historical roots that shape their modern celebrations. The origins of Halloween, also known as Samhain, can be traced back to Celtic traditions. People used to light bonfires and don costumes on October 31st to ward off spirits. Although Halloween became part of Christian holidays, pagan customs persisted.
On the other hand, the traditions of Thanksgiving are rooted in Native American harvest festivals and the English tradition of giving thanks for a bountiful harvest. In 1621, the first Thanksgiving in North America took place, bringing together Pilgrims and the Wampanoag tribe.
Both holidays have evolved over time but still retain their traditional elements. Halloween is known for activities like trick-or-treating, costume parties, and pumpkin carving. On the other hand, Thanksgiving is celebrated with a festive meal shared with family and friends, usually including turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.
Understanding the origins and traditions of Halloween and Thanksgiving allows us to appreciate their cultural significance. By embracing these traditions, we can connect with our history and come together to celebrate and express gratitude.
Similarities between Halloween and Thanksgiving
Celebrate the fall season with a delightful comparison between Halloween and Thanksgiving! Discover the intriguing similarities that lie beneath the surface of these two festive occasions. From the timing of the celebrations to the joyous gatherings of family and friends, we will uncover the seasonal themes, decorations, and even indulge in the mouthwatering food and drinks that make these holidays truly special. Get ready to explore the threads of gratitude and appreciate the shared traditions that bring us together during these remarkable festivities.
Celebration Timing
Halloween and Thanksgiving are observed at different times. Halloween, celebrated in October, aligns with the autumn season, marking the transition to winter. Thanksgiving, on the other hand, takes place in November, specifically on the fourth Thursday of the month in the United States. These holidays are about a month apart, allowing for distinct timing of celebration.
During Halloween, which falls on October 31st every year, people embrace the spooky, mystical, and supernatural themes associated with the holiday. They dress up in costumes, decorate their homes, and engage in activities such as trick-or-treating and costume parties. With shorter days and longer nights, the ambiance of Halloween is truly unique.
Thanksgiving, however, invites us to gather with loved ones, express gratitude, and enjoy a plentiful feast. This holiday is also connected to the harvest season, and it is an opportunity to give thanks for a successful harvest. With Thanksgiving falling towards the end of November, it heralds the arrival of winter and signals a time of reflection and appreciation.
To fully embrace the unique themes and traditions of each holiday, it is recommended to celebrate Halloween in October with spooky decorations and costumes. This creates an immersive experience, allowing you to fully embrace the spirit of Halloween. Then, in November, you can save the gratitude-filled Thanksgiving celebrations for a separate occasion. This way, you can fully immerse yourself in the spirit of both holidays and make the most of each celebration. By acknowledging the distinct timing of the two holidays, you can optimize your experience and fully enjoy the festivities.
Family and Friends Gathering
Family and friends gathering is important for Halloween and Thanksgiving celebrations. During these holidays, loved ones come together to create memories and enjoy each other’s company.
For Halloween, family and friends gather for activities like pumpkin carving, costume parties, and trick-or-treating. Neighbors open their doors to share treats, and families walk together, creating a sense of community. Loved ones enhance the joy and excitement of the festivities.
Similarly, Thanksgiving centers around gathering with family and friends. People come together for a special meal, express gratitude, and strengthen bonds of love and friendship. It’s a time to reconnect, catch up, and create new memories. The gathering often includes extended family and friends, making it a truly joyful and inclusive occasion.
Both holidays provide an opportunity for families and friends to come together, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. These gatherings nurture relationships and strengthen the sense of belonging. Whether dressing up for Halloween or enjoying a Thanksgiving feast, the presence of loved ones adds to the overall enjoyment and togetherness.
Seasonal Themes and Decorations
When it comes to seasonal themes and decorations, Halloween and Thanksgiving offer unique opportunities for festive adornments. Halloween decorations center around spooky and playful elements like ghosts, witches, pumpkins, and skeletons. Enhance the eerie ambiance with orange and black colors, spider webs, bats, and tombstones.
Thanksgiving decorations focus on warmth, gratitude, and harvest. Incorporate autumnal colors like red, orange, and brown into your decor. Display cornucopias, fall leaves, pumpkins, and gourds to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Combine elements of both holidays by using pumpkins and autumn leaves as transitional decorations. Add black and orange accents to your Thanksgiving table setting for a touch of spookiness.
To create a rustic Thanksgiving feel, add elements like burlap, wood, and candles to your decor. Use natural materials like acorns, pinecones, and wheat stalks for a farmhouse-inspired theme. Regardless of the theme, candles can add a warm and welcoming ambiance to Halloween and Thanksgiving celebrations. Use scented candles with fragrances like apple spice or cinnamon.
By embracing the seasonal themes and decorations of Halloween and Thanksgiving, you can create a visually stunning and enjoyable environment for your celebrations. Let your creativity shine and have fun incorporating elements from both holidays into your decor.
Festive Food and Drinks
When it comes to festive food and drinks, both Halloween and Thanksgiving offer a variety of treats and flavors.
Halloween | Thanksgiving |
---|---|
Candy | Roasted turkey |
Chocolates and sweets | Mashed potatoes |
Pumpkin pie | Stuffing |
Caramel apples | Cranberry sauce |
Popcorn balls | Green bean casserole |
Halloween is known for its candies and chocolates, perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth. On the other hand, Thanksgiving brings a feast centered around a roasted turkey. Traditional Thanksgiving dishes like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce offer a comforting and hearty meal.
For dessert, Halloween offers pumpkin-inspired treats like pumpkin pie, while Thanksgiving provides a variety of sweet treats, including pies such as apple or pecan. Both holidays also feature drinks like apple cider, hot chocolate, or themed cocktails for adults.
Whether you crave spooky sweets or traditional Thanksgiving favorites, both holidays provide a delicious spread of festive food and drinks to enjoy with family and friends.
Expressing Gratitude
Expressing gratitude is a common practice that is often observed during the festivities of Halloween and Thanksgiving. These occasions serve as perfect opportunities for individuals to demonstrate their appreciation towards their loved ones and express their gratitude for the blessings they have in their lives.
During Halloween, people often showcase their gratitude by thanking their friends for participating in costume parties or by showing appreciation towards their neighbors who generously hand out candy to the eager trick-or-treaters. This small act of gratitude goes a long way in fostering a positive atmosphere and strengthening relationships.
On the joyful occasion of Thanksgiving, the focus primarily lies on expressing gratitude. Families and friends come together to share a delicious meal and express their heartfelt thanks for the things they are thankful for. This includes gratitude for their loving family, good health, cherished friendships, and the abundance of food that graces their tables.
Indeed, the act of expressing gratitude plays a pivotal role in enhancing relationships and boosting overall well-being. It is a beautiful way of acknowledging and appreciating the contributions and impact that others have had on our lives. By expressing gratitude, we forge deeper connections and create a supportive environment for ourselves and those around us.
Both Halloween and Thanksgiving offer unique opportunities for individuals to express their gratitude in their own special ways. Whether it is through creatively donning costumes and engaging in festivities during Halloween or engaging in heartfelt conversations and expressions of appreciation over a delightful Thanksgiving meal, these holidays serve as powerful reminders of the importance of gratitude in our lives.
Differences between Halloween and Thanksgiving
Unveiling the unique flavors of Halloween and Thanksgiving, we explore the intriguing contrasts between these two celebrations. Dive into the Purpose and Significance, Cultural and Historical Background, Types of Activities and Traditions, as well as the Symbolism and Icons linked to these festive occasions. Get ready to uncover the fascinating tales, customs, and distinctive elements that make Halloween and Thanksgiving truly stand apart.
Purpose and Significance
When considering the purpose and significance of Halloween and Thanksgiving, it becomes evident that they serve distinct roles in our culture and traditions.
Halloween, also known as All Hallows’ Eve, is a celebration that honors the spirits of those who have passed away. It encompasses costume parties, trick-or-treating, and eerie-themed events that embrace the supernatural. Halloween provides a sense of exhilaration and excitement for both children and adults.
On the other hand, Thanksgiving carries a deep significance pertaining to gratitude and unity. Its purpose is to express appreciation for the blessings and abundance in our lives. Celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November in the United States, Thanksgiving involves the gathering of family and friends for a festive meal. It encourages introspection and contemplation of meaningful relationships while fostering a spirit of gratitude. Thanksgiving also acts as a reminder to value the harvest, share our blessings, and promote solidarity within communities.
Cultural and Historical Background
Cultural and historical background play a crucial role in shaping both Halloween and Thanksgiving. Halloween, which originated from ancient Celtic traditions, specifically the festival of Samhain, marked the transition from the harvest season to winter. On October 31st, it was believed that the line between the living and the dead was blurred, allowing spirits to freely roam.
Thanksgiving, on the other hand, has its origins in the Pilgrims’ arrival in America and their gratitude for a successful harvest in 1621. This event marked the beginning of a long-standing tradition of expressing gratitude for blessings received.
Over time, Halloween has evolved and incorporated various influences, such as Christian All Saints’ Day and the Mexican Dia de los Muertos. It has become synonymous with wearing costumes, decorating homes with spooky elements, and participating in the tradition of trick-or-treating.
In contrast, Thanksgiving has become a national holiday focused on giving thanks, gathering with family, and enjoying a special meal centered around roast turkey and traditional dishes.
While Halloween’s roots can be traced back to ancient pagan beliefs and superstitions, Thanksgiving has a specific historical context tied to the Pilgrims’ story and their interactions with Native Americans.
Understanding the cultural and historical background of these holidays is essential in appreciating the unique traditions and significance they hold within different communities.
Types of Activities and Traditions
Below is a table showing different activities and traditions associated with Halloween and Thanksgiving.
1. Costume Parties | 1. Family Gatherings and Feasts |
2. Trick-or-Treating | 2. Sharing Thanksgiving Meal |
3. Haunted Houses or Mazes | 3. Watching Thanksgiving Day Parade |
4. Carving Pumpkins | 4. Making Turkey and Traditional Side Dishes |
5. Costume Contests | 5. Expressing Gratitude and Sharing Stories |
These activities and traditions are commonly observed during Halloween and Thanksgiving celebrations. Halloween features costume parties, trick-or-treating, visiting haunted houses or mazes, and carving pumpkins into jack-o’-lanterns. On the other hand, Thanksgiving centers around family gatherings and feasts, sharing a special meal with loved ones, watching the Thanksgiving Day Parade, preparing a turkey and traditional side dishes, and expressing gratitude and sharing stories.
Both holidays offer unique experiences and opportunities for celebration. While Halloween emphasizes costumes and spooky-themed events, Thanksgiving focuses on family, gratitude, and sharing a meal together. Incorporating these activities and traditions enhances the festive atmosphere and creates meaningful memories. Whether it’s dressing up in costumes or preparing a delicious Thanksgiving feast, these traditions play a significant role in making these holidays special and enjoyable.
Symbolism and Icons
Symbolism and Icons are important in Halloween and Thanksgiving celebrations. These symbols have deep roots in the history and traditions of each holiday, adding meaning to the festivities.
1. Pumpkins: One of the most prominent symbols of Halloween, pumpkins are carved into Jack-o’-lanterns. They represent the legend of Stingy Jack and offer protection against evil spirits. During Thanksgiving, pumpkins symbolize abundance, harvest, and the arrival of fall.
2. Cornucopia: Also known as the Horn of Plenty, the cornucopia is a symbol of abundance and prosperity. It is commonly seen in Thanksgiving decorations, representing the bountiful harvest and gratitude.
3. Harvest Crops: Harvest symbols play a significant role in both Halloween and Thanksgiving. Cornstalks, wheat, apples, gourds, and other fruits and vegetables are used to decorate homes, tables, and outdoor spaces. These symbols represent the fruitful harvest and the connection to nature’s abundance.
4. Scarecrows: Scarecrows are associated with Halloween and represent the scare tactic to ward off evil spirits and protect crops. They can also be seen in Thanksgiving decorations, symbolizing the agricultural connection to the harvest season.
5. Pilgrim Hats and Native American Symbols: During Thanksgiving, symbols like Pilgrim hats and Native American-inspired icons represent the historical origins of the holiday. These symbols commemorate the shared meal between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag tribe, signifying unity and cooperation.
Incorporating these symbols and icons into Halloween and Thanksgiving celebrations enhances the festive atmosphere and reinforces the cultural and historical significance of these holidays. Whether it’s carving pumpkins or displaying a cornucopia centerpiece, these symbols remind us of the traditions and values associated with these special occasions.
Celebrating Halloween and Thanksgiving Together
Get ready to experience the best of both worlds as we dive into celebrating Halloween and Thanksgiving together. We’ll explore exciting ideas for joint celebrations and ways to incorporate both holidays seamlessly. From creating a festive atmosphere to indulging in seasonal delights, we’ll make sure your festivities are filled with joy. Plus, we’ll discover the power of embracing gratitude and togetherness during this wonderful time. So grab your pumpkin spice latte and let’s embark on a journey of festive merriment!
Ideas for Celebrations
Here are some Ideas for Celebrations that combine the festivities of Halloween and Thanksgiving:
– Host a “Thank-O-Ween” party: Guests dress up in costumes reflecting gratitude. Decorate with pumpkins, turkeys, and fall foliage, while also incorporating Halloween decorations.
– Organize a pumpkin carving contest: Get creative by carving turkeys, cornucopias, or expressing gratitude on pumpkins.
– Create a “Harvest Haunted House”: Transform your home into a spooky haunted house with a harvest twist. Use scarecrows, hay bales, and cornstalks, while incorporating Halloween decorations like spider webs and skeletons.
– Plan a “Falloween Feast”: Host a Halloween-inspired feast with a Thanksgiving twist. Serve traditional Thanksgiving dishes alongside spooky treats like mummy hot dogs or pumpkin-shaped cookies.
– Combine Trick-or-Treating and Thankful Giving: Encourage children to collect non-perishable food items while trick-or-treating. Donate the collected food to a local food bank or charity to spread gratitude and kindness during both holidays.
These celebration Ideas bring together the traditions of Halloween and Thanksgiving, creating a unique and memorable experience for all.
Incorporating Both Holidays
To incorporate both Halloween and Thanksgiving, create a table to plan and organize activities:
Halloween | Thanksgiving |
---|---|
Decorate your home with spooky decorations | Decorate your home with autumn-themed decor |
Carve pumpkins and display them as jack-o-lanterns | Create a centerpiece with fall foliage and seasonal flowers |
Host a Halloween costume party | Gather with family and friends for a Thanksgiving feast |
Play Halloween-themed games like bobbing for apples | Engage in a friendly game of touch football |
Prepare spooky treats like Halloween-themed cookies | Cook traditional Thanksgiving dishes like turkey and pumpkin pie |
Incorporating both holidays allows you to enjoy the festive spirit of Halloween with unique decorations and activities, while also embracing the gratitude and togetherness of Thanksgiving through traditional gatherings and delicious food. It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the joy and blessings of the season with loved ones.
Did you know that Halloween was originally a Celtic holiday known as Samhain, marking the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter? Over time, it evolved into the modern-day celebration we know today.
Creating a Festive Environment
Creating a festive environment for both Halloween and Thanksgiving is essential to ensure joyful, exciting, and grateful celebrations. Follow these steps to decorate your home with traditional symbols and colors associated with the holidays. Incorporate orange, black, and white for Halloween, and add red, yellow, and brown for Thanksgiving.
Hang up festive banners, garlands, and balloons with Halloween and Thanksgiving motifs to add color and excitement to your environment. Set the mood with themed lighting, using orange and purple string lights for Halloween and warm, cozy string lights for Thanksgiving.
Display themed centerpieces and table decorations, such as jack-o’-lanterns, spider webs, eerie candle holders, pumpkins, autumn leaves, and cornucopias. Play seasonal music that fits the ambiance of both holidays, creating playlists with spooky tunes for Halloween and cheerful, grateful melodies for Thanksgiving.
Encourage guests and family members to dress up in costumes for Halloween to add to the festive atmosphere and make the celebration more enjoyable. Place scented candles around your home that evoke the scents of the season, such as pumpkin spice, cinnamon, or apple cider.
Arrange a special display or corner dedicated to festive treats and snacks, including Halloween-themed candies and desserts, as well as Thanksgiving favorites like pumpkin pie and turkey-shaped cookies. Enhance the festive vibe during meals and gatherings by using themed tableware and napkins that reflect both Halloween and Thanksgiving.
Consider incorporating seasonal scents into your environment by using air fresheners or essential oils with fragrances like pumpkin spice, cinnamon, or apple. By following these steps, you can create a festive environment and set the stage for a memorable and enjoyable holiday season.
Enjoying Seasonal Delights
Enjoy the seasonal delights while celebrating both Halloween and Thanksgiving. Here are some ideas to indulge in:
1. Treat your taste buds with spiced pumpkin delicacies like pumpkin pie, pumpkin bread, or pumpkin spice lattes.
2. Experience the warmth and nutty flavors of roasted chestnuts, a traditional autumn delight.
3. Sip on comforting apple cider, hot or cold, for a refreshing taste that captures the essence of the season.
4. Embrace the Halloween spirit by enjoying the iconic tri-colored candy corn and its sweet and unique flavor.
5. Indulge in the delightful combination of juicy apples and sticky caramel with caramel apples, a delicious treat perfect for both holidays.
Fun Fact: Did you know that pumpkin pie, a popular Thanksgiving dessert, was originally made with squashes such as butternut squash or sweet potatoes? Pumpkins later gained popularity due to their abundance and similar taste.
Embracing Gratitude and Togetherness
Embracing gratitude and togetherness is pivotal during Halloween and Thanksgiving. These occasions bring people together to appreciate and express gratitude for their blessings. Gathering with family and friends is one wonderful way to embrace gratitude and togetherness. Whether it’s dressing up for Halloween or sitting at the Thanksgiving table, being surrounded by loved ones fosters a deep sense of togetherness and gratitude.
Expressing appreciation also plays a significant role in embracing gratitude. During Halloween and Thanksgiving, individuals frequently express gratitude for the abundance of food, joyful celebrations, and the company of loved ones. This practice cultivates a positive mindset and enhances the sense of togetherness.
Creating a festive environment can contribute to embracing gratitude. Decorations in homes, including spooky Halloween decorations or a beautifully set Thanksgiving table, can enhance the festive atmosphere and create a profound sense of gratitude and excitement.
Participating in acts of kindness and generosity is another important way to embrace gratitude and togetherness. Halloween and Thanksgiving provide ample opportunities to give back to the community, such as donating candy to children or volunteering at a local food bank. By assisting others and spreading kindness, we actively reinforce the values of gratitude and togetherness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the similarities between Halloween and Thanksgiving?
Both Halloween and Thanksgiving share several similarities. They both involve spending time with friends and family, enjoying good food, and have pleasant “hoodie weather” in autumn. They also incorporate generic archetypes like turkey figurines and spooky themes like scary costumes.
How do Halloween and Thanksgiving compare in terms of their origins?
Halloween originated from an ancient Celtic festival called Samhain and was later brought to America by Irish immigrants. It was associated with death and evolved into All Hallow’s Eve. On the other hand, Thanksgiving originated in 1620 when pilgrims settled in Plymouth and formed an alliance with Native Americans. The first Thanksgiving feast was held in 1621 as a celebration of the autumn harvest feast.
Do Halloween and Thanksgiving have any differences in their cultural significance?
Yes, Halloween and Thanksgiving have different cultural significance. Halloween is more focused on spooky themes, dressing up in costumes, and collecting candy. It has evolved into a secular holiday associated with fun and scares. In contrast, Thanksgiving is about being thankful and dedicated to gratitude, togetherness, and love. It is often seen as a time for family reunions and a reflection of positive ideals.
Are there any differences in the types of food associated with Halloween and Thanksgiving?
Definitely! Halloween is known mainly for candy, but it also includes Halloween-themed foods like candy apples and Halloween cakes. Thanksgiving, on the other hand, is famous for its feast with traditional dishes such as turkey, potatoes, pies, and various side dishes. Both holidays, however, may include pumpkin pie as a popular dessert.
What is the significance of time off during Halloween and Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving provides people with time off from work and school to enjoy a family meal and relax. It is followed by Black Friday, a day for shopping. Halloween does not offer time off like Thanksgiving does.
Can you provide virtual Halloween ideas and affordable Halloween ideas?
Yes, if you’re looking for virtual Halloween ideas, you can visit our website at affordablehalloweenideas.com. We have a full description of virtual Halloween activities to help you celebrate while observing social distancing guidelines. If you’re on a budget, our website provides affordable Halloween ideas for costumes, decorations, and treats.