Young'uns may lament having to go to school the day of and the day after Halloween and parents sometimes stress about getting children in costume and trick-or-treating on a school night.
But is that enough to alter tradition?
State Representative Tim Larson, D-11, of East Hartford, South Windsor, wants to designate the last Saturday in October as Halloween in Connecticut, similar to the governor’s annual proclamation of Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday of November.
Larson said the change is good for children, families and the economy.
"Halloween is fun night for the whole family, but not so much when you have to race home from work, get the kids ready for trick or treating, welcome the neighborhood children and then try to get everyone to bed for an early school and work morning," Larson said in a Monday, Oct. 24, press release. "Halloween has also become one of the top holidays for retailers selling candy, decorations, costumes and general party supplies. Jobs are created by this holiday, so let’s make it a little more fun and safe for everyone and create some jobs too."
Larson said he has talked with parents of young children that say weeknight trick or treating, such as Monday this year, presents a variety of problems for candy-stuffed children who have to get up early for school and limits the ability of everyone to enjoy celebrating.
Saturday makes it easier for kid-friendly daytime events and taking younger children trick-or-treating before it gets dark, he said.
With Halloween only a week away, Larson said he does not expect his Saturday proposal to come up during the upcoming special session of the legislature.
According to Gov. Dannel Malloy's press secretary Juliet Manalan, Halloween will stay on October 31.
Larson is hopeful the 2012 General Assembly will consider the idea.
"This would be good for the economy and make Halloween a more family-friendly event every year," he said. "Everyone looks forward to Halloween a little more when it falls on the weekend."
