But in more recent years it seems to rival Christmas as a major
> holiday. TV networks produce multiple Halloween-themed shows, run
> horror movies throughout the month. There are many elaborate parties
> for adults and kids. Costumes and events (public haunted houses) have
> grown very elaborate.
> It seems society has gone way overboard on this, particularly the > entertainment media.
Wherever there's money to be made off someone you can bet that companies and other entities will take advantage of it.
There are a few subgroups in society that make a very big deal about
> Halloween, but I really doubt they can influence the rest of us so > much.
You're only influenced as much as you wish to be influenced.