This is Halloween @ Steinmühle

Halloween is just around the corner, but unfortunately, the big costume party had to be canceled this year. But of course, masks, social distancing, and other precautions aren’t stopping the Steinmühl students from enjoying a spookily fun boarding school weekend. So the teachers put together a COVID-safe program for the weekend that gave the students plenty of reasons to get the creeps.

Creative Pumpkins Carved by Hand

Of course, the classic pumpkin carving activity was a must. Inside the tent, the large pumpkins were hollowed out and carved using professional tools until, in the end, seven glowing, spooky faces adorned the entrance to the dining hall. Everything was carved, from the Cheshire Cat from *Alice in Wonderland* to the face from *The Nightmare Before Christmas* to the classic grim expressions. Sprayed with varnish, these handmade pumpkins will last until October 31.

A Full Halloween Lineup: Scary Movies, a Nighttime Walk, and More

And while the older students tried not to throw their popcorn into the air in fright as they watched a scary movie that evening in the dining hall—which had been set up to comply with COVID-19 guidelines—the younger students shuddered during their nighttime walk. Ten intrepid Steinmühl students ventured out with two teachers on a tour through the Cappeler Forest—a test of courage, of course, included. Fortunately, everyone arrived home safe and sound after surviving the terrors of the dark forest.

The horrors of the forest were brought directly to the students’ cell phones and tablets through the digital game “Among Us.” The objective of the game: to unmask the sinister enemy “among us” in the fictional space colony in order to save the community. Thrills and fun are guaranteed here as players work to uncover the traitor in their own ranks. This digital reimagining of the classic Werewolf game was a hit with many students and continued to be played even beyond the extracurricular club sessions, right into the dorm groups.

For those who preferred something a little more low-key: a cozy, spine-tingling experience with storytime and puzzles

Those who preferred a more laid-back atmosphere could gather in the gym for “Trick or Treat,” where, while maintaining a safe distance and by candlelight, they could listen to someone read from *Harry Potter*. The more active, unconventional thinkers among the students were invited to take part in “Black Stories”: Two men died at the same time, simply because they wanted to get some fresh air. What had happened? This and other mysteries were solved together.

The biggest mystery for the residents of Steinmühle right now, however, is whether and when a big activity weekend will be able to take place again. But thanks to the creativity of the educators, it will never get boring here, no matter what.