Elements employed to transform a dwelling’s exterior and interior into a site evoking fear and unease, typically associated with the Halloween season, are considered a specific category of seasonal ornamentation. Such items might include simulated cobwebs, skeletal figures, faux tombstones, and lighting schemes designed to create a disturbing atmosphere. An example includes placing a life-sized, animated ghoul on a porch that startles visitors as they approach the entrance.
The practice of utilizing unsettling visuals for autumnal celebrations offers several functions. It taps into a primal fascination with the macabre, providing an outlet for imaginative expression and harmless thrill-seeking. Historically, such displays connect to ancient beliefs about warding off malevolent spirits during the transition from summer to winter, evolving into a secular tradition focused on entertainment and community engagement.