7 Scary-Good Ways to Save Money for This Year’s Halloween Celebration

It’s no secret 2020 has been a rough year, including financially. But that doesn’t mean you should get rid of celebrating exciting holidays altogether. With Halloween creeping around the corner, there’s still some time to make it a wicked-good holiday while saving some cash along the way. Here are some tips to help you feel most festive on a budget.

1. DIY Decorations

Halloween decorations, especially during peak season, are really expensive to buy. “Do-it-yourself” decorations are the innovative, inexpensive way to embellish. Stores like Family Dollar have some inexpensive Halloween deals, or you can find discounts at craft stores like Michaels.

2. Potluck Party

If you’re able to have a socially distant party, get a small group of friends and enjoy a potluck. This way, everyone chips in and shares a comfort fall dish, all while in costume. Some delicious foods you can find on sale are soups (imagine serving it in a cauldron), pre-made sandwiches, and other things you can easily serve without hassle and anyone feeling uncomfortable.

3. Discounted Candy

While candy is a big sales point during Halloween, there are still some pretty good sales on bulk bags and other brands. You can find deals on candy at pharmacies like Walgreens. While you’re waiting for the deals, it’s a good idea to start looking for coupons too. Stores are currently adding seasonal coupons into their weekly flyers, so be on the lookout for those candy deals.

Related: Where to Get Halloween Candy on a Budget? Make Your Own at Home with Kids

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4. Make Your Own Costumes

You don’t need to be a fashion designer to sew up a creative costume. Costumes also can cost an arm and a leg, so designing your own can be a fun way to save some money and show off your creativity! Stores like Dollar General sell inexpensive makeup and beauty supplies so you can create the most spooky-looking makeup designs. As far as your pets go, make sure to check out this week's Target ad for some super cute (and affordable) costumes for your furry friends.

5. Use a Pillowcase as Your Candy Bag

This classic candy bag is both and trick and a treat for your Halloween night adventures. Not only are you saving money by not buying a decorative Halloween bag (that your kids will be sure to grow out of by next year) but think about all the candy you can fit into those bags! You can (safely) go door-to-door looking for candy and then have enough of it to last you for months!

6. Use Your Pumpkins

Pumpkins make for great decorations, and really bring an element of fun into the Halloween spirit. However, instead of just carving them this year and throwing out all of its insides, try roasting the pumpkin seeds. It’s a fun, messy experience for the kids, and a delicious and inexpensive kids' snack. You can even find coupons on carving pumpkins at grocery stores.

7. Skip Handing out Candy

A lot of money goes into buying candy for trick-or-treaters. You buy tons of candy to give away, and sometimes you buy goodie bags to go with it. It adds up! With the question of the pandemic still looming, this may be a great time to just cut the candy distributing altogether. That doesn’t mean you have to close all your lights and act like no one is home. You can still get in the spirit with Halloween lights that are on sale at many different stores, so trick-or-treaters can enjoy a walk past your house!