Halloween is here! From scattered fall leaves to pumpkins on porches and Ghost Busters playing on the radio, the spooky holiday is in full force.
It is the fifth largest retail holiday in North America with the average person spending $50 to $100 USD on costumes alone.
In 2022, American consumers spend $10.6 billion on Halloween followed by $12.2 billion in 2023 (National Retail Federation).
Holiday enthusiasts are expected to spend $11.6 billion this year short of 2023’s record.
Furthermore, costumes, candy, decorations, and greeting cards combined can easily exceed $100 spent per person.
Spending overview
2024:
Costumes: $3.8 billion
Candy: $3.5 billion
Decorations: $3.8 billion
Greeting cards: $0.5 billion
2023:
Costumes: $4.1 billion
Candy: $3.6 billion
Decorations: 3.9 billion
Greeting cards: $0.5 billion
Compared to other years, Halloween 2023 still holds the record for the most spent compared to other years.
Halloween trends
Additional research by the National Retail Federation found that 72% of Americans will celebrate Halloween in some capacity, the majority of which will hand out candy.
Meanwhile, attending a party sits at the bottom of the priority list.
Halloween shopping
37% of people buy Halloween goods at discount stores, 33% at Halloween stores and then 33% online (Investopedia).
Because of the advancements of e-commerce, online shopping is becoming increasingly accessible and preferred.
In fact, 2024’s data shows that more costume-seekers are making their purchases and inspiration online. TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram are the most dominant platforms for costume ideas.
Little monsters
Pet costumes are also trending. Americans spend approximately Americans spend $700 million every year on costumes for their pets.
The most “pupular” pet costumes are pumpkins, hot dogs, bats, bumblebees, ghosts and spiders (there’s a joke in there somewhere).
Saving tricks
You can trick yourself out of spending too much and still treat yourself to a good time!
Use what you have at home to create a costume. A classic animal costume, like a cat or a dog, can be very easy to pull off with drawn-on whiskers and a nose.
A quick trip to Value Village or local thrift/discount stores can also be promising to find both costumes and decor.
Buy candy in bulk at warehouse stores like Wholesale Club or Costco. Drug stores and grocery chains tend to sell less for a lot more.
Get into the community! Community centers, your children’s school and organizations often host fun and free family-friendly events.
It’s a great way to get into the spirit while expanding your network.
If you’re hosting a party, going potluck style is another way to save. This can take the pressure off and is a fantastic conversation starter as guests arrive with their contribution.
Above all, its the spirit of playfulness that defines Halloween, not how much you spend.
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