Halloween 2008 -- Friday Night Delight

(ARA) - This year we're in for an extra-special treat as Halloween falls on Friday night. Already the second biggest decorating holiday each year -- Halloween becomes even bigger when there's no work or school the next day. Experts are predicting Americans will make Halloween 2008 the biggest in history.

And, in what's sure to be another dynamic election year, Halloween may be just what the doctor ordered for the country as it will be the perfect way for both "red" and "blue" Americans to relax and celebrate together in orange and black only days before Nov. 4, 2008.

Phil Rist, head of strategy research at BIGresearch, an online market intelligence and interest research company, states, "Halloween is no longer considered a children's holiday." He concludes that adults view Halloween as a way to ease the stress of work and everyday life. Richard Laermer, author of 2011: Trendspotting for the Next Decade, agrees, suggesting that fantasy is crucial for stressed-out adults. According to Laermer, "The idea of pretending is something that we all just realized is not only possible, but absolutely essential."

"Adults also like to reconnect with fond moments from their childhood" explains Rick Ruffolo, senior vice president of brand, marketing, and innovation at Yankee Candle. "People want to return to the happy, carefree days of their youth. It's like trick-or-treating down memory lane."

Besides decorating earlier and more completely this year with spooky Halloween scenes of candlelit chandeliers and jack-o-lanterns, many people will use scent as a way to enhance the experience throughout October. Ruffolo adds. "Numerous studies have proven that scents are the most powerful trigger for memories, as well as the emotions associated with them. Feel-good fall candle scents such as Pumpkin Pie, Autumn Leaves, Pomegranate Cider, Cinnamon Stick, and Farmhouse Apple will remind you immediately of Halloween celebrations as a kid."

All three make convincing points for getting into the festive spirit of the occasion. Experts agree that not having to get up early the following day will help Halloween 2008 be the biggest in history. People will begin getting in the mood by decorating all throughout the month of October. Happy Halloween!

Courtesy of ARAcontent