Hosting Safe Halloween Parties
Halloween is one of the most celebrated nights of the year for young people. From costumes to candy to parties with friends, the excitement is undeniable. Yet, just like homecoming, Halloween is also a time when risky behaviors, including underage drinking and substance use, can surface. Local survey data from Tompkins and Cortland counties show why safe hosting matters and how families can take steps to make Halloween both fun and safe.
Why safe hosting is needed on Halloween
Halloween gatherings often happen outside of school settings, in homes or at unsupervised events. This can increase the likelihood that alcohol or cannabis will be present. The 2023 CLYDE Youth Survey in Tompkins County found that about one in eight students reported drinking alcohol in the past 30 days and 4% reported binge drinking. About one in ten students also reported recent cannabis use.
The 2024 Cortland Youth Survey revealed similar results with roughly one-third of students saying alcohol was easy to access. Importantly, the survey also showed that youth who felt disconnected from family were more likely to report drinking, while those with strong family connections were less likely to engage in substance use.
Taken together, these findings show that Halloween parties can be more than a fun tradition. Without safe hosting practices, they can also become a setting where youth face unnecessary risks.
Tips for safe Halloween hosting
Parents and caregivers play a critical role in shaping a safe Halloween environment. The most effective approach begins before the party even starts. Setting clear rules and talking with teens about your expectations helps reduce the chance of alcohol use. When parents communicate consistently that underage drinking is not acceptable, youth are less likely to drink.
Hosting at home is one way to create a safer space. By keeping the gathering under your supervision, you can manage who attends, monitor activities, and limit access to substances. Lock away alcohol in the home and do not allow guests to bring their own. Providing snacks, festive non-alcoholic drinks, and themed activities such as pumpkin carving or costume contests can make the party feel fun and celebratory without alcohol.
Supervision during the event is essential. Walking through different areas of the home, checking in with guests, and staying available communicates both care and accountability. Parents can also collaborate by co-hosting with trusted families to share responsibility.
Transportation should always be part of the plan. Before the party, confirm how each guest will get home. If you suspect a young person of drinking or using other substances, never allow them to drive. Having contact information for other parents can help coordinate safe rides. Finally, prepare for emergencies by keeping important phone numbers handy and reminding teens that safety always comes first.
Working together as a community
Halloween should be remembered for laughter, costumes, and connection, not for dangerous situations or regrets. The youth surveys in Tompkins and Cortland counties highlight both the challenges we face and the solutions that work. When families communicate clearly, offer safe spaces, and model responsible hosting, they help reduce underage drinking and support youth well-being.
This Halloween season, let’s commit to safe hosting so our young people can celebrate in ways that strengthen health, connection, and community. To download a printable safe hosting PDF click here. For more safe hosting tips and other parenting resources, visit safe365ny.org.
References:
The Rural Health Institute of New York (RHI). Results and Analysis: The 2024 Cortland Youth Survey.
Tompkins BOCES. (2023). CLYDE Survey (Catalyst Insights, analyst). Tompkins BOCES.
