We know Americans love their retail therapy, especially when it comes to the holidays. As Halloween quickly approaches, experts are predicting that American spending will reach record levels – $12.2 billion, which is about $2 billion more than the $10.6 billion spent on the holiday in 2022.
While we all love Halloween — the parties, dressing up, and the affinity for pumpkin spice that the season brings — most people don’t want to break their bank on this seemingly whimsical and light-hearted holiday. All the ghosts, goblins, and wizards won’t fault you for thinking financially savvy and saving some dollars.
Here are a few tips on how to do Halloween on a budget:
Opt for a DIY Costume
Halloween rolls around every year. With it, comes the pressure to purchase a new Halloween costume each year. Instead, utilize what is in your closet and your makeup cabinet already to put together a stylish and customized costume. You’ll save lots of money and earn bonus points for your creativity and originality.
Cut the Cost on Decorations
This might be a tough one for Halloween lovers who are big on decorations and having the best Halloween displays. You can rack up a lot of bills on paying for lights, fake spider webs to cover your windows, and massive blow-ups that fill the lawn. Instead, opt for pumpkins from your local grocery store, which make for great and simple front porch decorations. Be sure to give yourself a pumpkin-spending limit! Also, don’t be afraid to hit up your local dollar store for cost-friendly decorations.
Attend Free Halloween Activities and Community Events
If you have kids, then they are most likely going to want to trick-or-treat and get all the candy they can. Opt for events that don’t have a ticket price. Instead, look for the numerous local events that offer trunk-or-treating or carnivals for kids. You’ll save much more money avoiding pricey haunted houses or themed parties.
Make Your Halloween Party Into a Potluck
Thanksgiving is not the only holiday when you can host a potluck. Instead of going all out and hosting a Halloween party for friends and family, make it into a potluck where guests bring their favorite Halloween or fall-inspired dish. When everyone chips in, it’ll cut the costs tremendously.