Halloween in November?

That’s the best option for a campus divided over when to plan one of the biggest celebrations of the year.

Since Oct. 31 falls on a Thursday, students have been confused whether it would be more improper to revel beforehand as in years past, even though the prior Saturday is a full five days early, or buck tradition and, like last year?s World Series, push an October classic into early November. Finding a consensus is imperative so visitors know when to come to town, so costume stores can anticipate the rush and students have enough time to prepare entertainment and attire.

When Halloween has occurred midweek, students traditionally celebrated on a Saturday, partly to coordinate excitement with a UW football win and partly to give visitors the best chance to travel to Madison. Without a home football game either weekend, the choice becomes somewhat arbitrary, but we think Nov. 2 would most suit this year?s calendar and the campus at large.

Importantly, since the week is rapidly approaching, the later date gives masqueraders more time to piece together their outfits and visitors greater advance to make travel plans. Most students seem to agree: 60 percent of voters in a www.badgerherald.com poll indicated they preferred a celebration between Oct. 31 and Nov. 2 and Wisconsin?s fraternities reportedly planned events during the second weekend.

Even in November, we find it important to gather as close to Halloween’s date as possible and are excited that a Thursday holiday gives people an opportunity to string two or three nights of celebration together. We encourage students to enjoy Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 in costume, and expect crowded streets Nov. 2.