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Editor's note: With Halloween fast approaching, Chengdu's metro issued a statement on its Weibo account, banning spooky costumes to avoid chaos and panic among passengers. Should Halloween costumes be banned from the subway? Is Halloween becoming more popular in China? Forum readers share their opinions.
surfer567 (Thailand)
I loved Halloween, but it doesn't mean I want China to adopt the tradition, and I wouldn't ask for such a thing. If I wanted to celebrate Halloween, then I would go to the US. Each country should have its own unique traditions. And I never knew about the origins of Halloween, but to me, it's not important. What's priceless is not knowledge of where Halloween came from and not even the candies you get, but the fun you have with your friends. I'm sure Chinese people have got their own ways of having fun.
Ratfink (Australia)
The Chinese should avoid such shallow festivities such as Halloween, Easter and the dreadful US style Christmas. Chinese festivals are far more interesting and far older for the most part.
Seneca (Expat in China)
I too would ban such carnival activities on public transport. In a public square, perhaps yes, but not in underground railways or in buses. They are not appropriate avenues for entertainment activities. These activities might endanger the safety of passengers.
seanboyce88 （UK）
Halloween is fun for kids, I know because I remember. It was awesome dressing up as a night or your favorite super hero for one night. Sure adults participate too and maybe go too far but remember in the end, it's for the kids the dressing up, and if you asked them, or done a survey I am sure it would be a majority vote of "Halloween is awesome."
TedM (UK)
Chinese people love any excuse for an activity that is different from their working lives. There is nothing about religion; just the exciting bits about giving gifts, decorating and dressing up. Good excuses for parties, eating good food and meeting friends and family.
aa@edward (Australia)
Chinese in mainland ought to FORGET and GIVE UP this play of Halloween; otherwise, it is being so naive and uneducated because Halloween is just a rip off commercial story for biz galore to rob all your time, energies and money. What does Halloween bring? Absolute nothing but a sort of devilish and ghostly charm similar to past centuries old Chinese tricks threatened with black magics and worn in ghost dresses added with high top hats painted with blood stains! Get off this very silly and naive trend in China as soon as possible !! Governments must do more to STOP this nonsense! Follow China.org.cn on Twitter and Facebook to join the conversation. Source: China.org.cn
