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Halloween night in Shanghai took a surprising turn this year, as a heavy police crackdown on costumes left the city’s streets eerily quiet. Young revelers had been gearing up for a festive night, but instead, they found themselves in a city where costumes were almost entirely absent.
During a recent four-hour walk through Shanghai's nightlife district, only two people were spotted wearing Halloween costumes, and they mentioned they had registered their outfits with the police to avoid trouble. The police presence was noticeable, with officers stationed at every corner, ensuring the streets remained calm and free of Halloween revelers.
This situation escalated after some Halloween fans dressed up last weekend, with costumes ranging from Spiderman to a fake policeman. However, police swiftly intervened, removing those in costume and enforcing a rule that prohibited dressing up in public spaces.
10月26日，上海。
— 李老师不是你老师 (@whyyoutouzhele) October 27, 2024
两名coser被警察强行带走，期间警察大声呵斥对方“下去！” pic.twitter.com/7UZjovADqC
Last year’s Halloween was marked by political statements, with some individuals donning costumes that represented COVID inspectors or surveillance cameras, a nod to the protests that erupted in Shanghai against the government's strict COVID policies. Given the sensitivity surrounding public gatherings and political expression, the government is keen to maintain social order, especially during times of potential unrest.
While it’s permissible to wear costumes at home or in specific designated areas, the days of ghosts and ghouls roaming freely on the streets of Shanghai appear to be over. Bar owners, like Zheng Yang, had decorated their establishments but anticipated a quiet night. "People don’t dare to go out now because of the restrictions," she explained, noting that anyone caught in costume would be asked to either remove it or return home.
For many young people in China, Halloween was once a chance to unwind and express themselves. "They need to vent in some way—it’s an outlet," Yang said. Despite the crackdown, she believes that those determined to celebrate will still find a way to enjoy the spirit of Halloween in private.
Source: Sky News
