Halloween is creeping up, and we’re just as hyped as you are to bring on the candy, costumes, and late-night haunts! Whether you’re planning to hit up a Halloween party, watch some scary movies, or just try not to eat all the candy in one night, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a how-to guide for a successful (and responsible) Halloween at Miami!
Choose Your Costume Wisely 🎭
We love creative costumes—zombies, mummies, and ghostly cats are all welcome!
But remember, there’s a big difference between a costume and culture. When you’re brainstorming costume ideas, think twice about anything that could be considered offensive or overly stereotypical.
Here’s a quick costume checklist:
- Does it play off harmful stereotypes?
- Could it come across as disrespectful to someone’s identity or heritage?
- Is it something you’d feel okay posting on Instagram and leaving there for future job searches?
The point here: Go for the fun, not the regret. Whether you’re a vampire or a vending machine, keep it smart, funny, or spooky—and leave stereotypes out of the mix.
Plan Your Night🍂
Let’s talk safety while you’re out celebrating. This can be extra important on Halloween, where it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement. The HAWKS peer health educators recently posted some good advice for staying safe if you’re going out around Halloween.
- Pace yourself. Limit yourself to one standard drink per hour.
- Grab a bite to eat. Food won’t sober you up, but it will slow down absorption.
- Set a limit. Decide ahead of time if you will drink and how much you will drink.
- Choose not to drink. You can still have a good time without alcohol.
- Stay with your friends. Stick together and make sure no one is left behind!
And don’t forget: It’s not just about fun—it’s about making sure you all have a memorable, positive night together.
Just Call if You Need Help 📞
If you find yourself in a situation where a friend (or even a stranger) is having trouble taking care of themselves, remember that help is always one call away. Miami has a Good Samaritan Policy: this means if you need to call for medical assistance for someone having an alcohol or drug-related emergency, neither of you will face disciplinary action. Don’t hesitate to reach out if someone needs help! Check out the full policy in the Code of Student Conduct.
Here’s what to look out for:
- Cold, clammy, or bluish skin
- Vomiting while unconscious
- Irregular or slow heartbeat
These signs aren’t worth ignoring. If you or someone needs help, call Miami Police at 513-529-2222 or just dial 911.
Last but not least, should you need a safe way to get home after 10 p.m., book a SafeRide trip using the BCRTA app. Their hours are Monday through Saturday 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. and Sundays 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. The best part? It’s free!
Bonus: Stop by the Halloween Open House at Lewis Place!
Don’t miss out on Miami’s Halloween Open House at Lewis Place! Drop by on Thursday, October 31, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. to grab some treats, sip hot chocolate, and check out amazing student, faculty, and staff artwork on display. Whether you come in costume or as you are, it’s a great chance to experience some seasonal spirit (and see Ivy and Newton in their Halloween costumes!).
Remember, folks: Halloween is all about fun, frights, and making memories you’ll laugh about later. So whether you’re rocking a costume, heading out with friends, or stopping by Lewis Place for some Halloween cheer, remember these tips to make this Halloween at Miami your best one yet!
Chi Truong | Class of 2026
