Halloween is one of the year’s most fun and festive holidays, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you’re planning to celebrate with friends or family or just looking for ways to get into the spooky spirit, there are plenty of creative ways to enjoy Halloween on a budget.
From DIY decorations to affordable costume ideas, here are eight inexpensive ways to make the most of Halloween without spending a fortune.
1. DIY Halloween costumes
One of the most exciting parts of Halloween is dressing up, but store-bought costumes can be expensive. Instead, get creative with DIY costume ideas using items you already have at home. For instance, an old bedsheet can easily be transformed into a classic ghost. Have a black dress and some eyeliner? You’re halfway to a DIY witch or vampire costume.
You can also make group costumes with friends using simple themes like ‘punny’ outfits (think ‘cereal killer’ with mini cereal boxes and fake knives). Thrift stores are a treasure trove for affordable costume supplies like hats, capes, and props. The key is to be resourceful and let your imagination lead the way.
2. Pumpkin carving (or painting!) night
Pumpkin carving is a Halloween classic, but if buying pumpkins for everyone seems too costly, try a pumpkin-painting party instead. Miniature pumpkins or squash are often cheaper, and acrylic paint or markers are more affordable.
You can also carve just one or two pumpkins as a group and then display them as a centrepiece. Make it a friendly competition to create the scariest or funniest design. Add candles or fairy lights to illuminate the pumpkins, giving your home an eerie glow without spending much!
3. Host a potluck Halloween party
Instead of hosting a big, elaborate party, consider a potluck-style gathering where each guest brings a Halloween-themed dish or snack. Not only does this reduce the cost for everyone involved, but it also allows people to showcase their creativity through food. Think of mummy hot dogs, eyeball devilled eggs, or spooky cupcakes.
A simple punch with floating ‘eyeballs’ made from peeled grapes or lychees can be a fun touch for drinks. You don’t need expensive party decorations either—use black tablecloths, orange string lights, and some DIY cobwebs to set the mood. Everyone will have a great time and the shared responsibility makes it a low-cost event.
4. Scary movie marathon
You don’t have to go out to enjoy a spooky movie night. Instead, create a cosy space at home with blankets and pillows, and stream some Halloween classics. Services like Netflix, HBO Go, and Disney+ often feature curated Halloween collections this time of year, offering various options, including family-friendly movies, psychological thrillers, and horror films.
To make it an interactive experience, prepare inexpensive snacks like popcorn, candy corn, or caramel apples. You could also print bingo cards for the night that include common horror movie tropes such as ‘the jump scare,’ ‘the creepy doll,’ or ‘the final girl.’ It’s an easy and budget-friendly way to get into the Halloween spirit while staying in.
5. Bake Halloween treats
Get into the Halloween spirit by baking together as a family or with friends. It is an inexpensive activity, and you can also enjoy the delicious results! Classic sugar cookies shaped like bats, pumpkins, and ghosts can be decorated with simple icing. Brownies or cupcakes can easily be transformed with a little orange and black frosting or by adding candy eyes.
If you want healthier options, try making spooky fruit treats like ‘banana ghosts’ or ‘apple monster mouths’ with everyday ingredients. Baking together not only creates fun memories but also allows you to enjoy affordable Halloween-themed snacks; homemade is always healthier!
6. DIY haunted house or spooky scavenger hunt
Transform your living space into a mini haunted house with just a few simple items. Use old sheets, cardboard boxes, and dollar-store finds to create spooky scenes like gravestones, ghosts, or cobwebs. Dim the lights, play eerie music, and lead your guests on a creepy tour.
A spooky scavenger hunt can be a more lighthearted and affordable alternative for families with younger children. Hide Halloween-themed items (like plastic spiders, fake bats, or candy) around your home or yard and let the kids (or even adults!) search for them. Not only is this a fun activity, but it also keeps everyone entertained without purchasing tickets for a haunted house attraction.
7. Make DIY Halloween decorations
Instead of spending money on expensive store-bought decorations, get crafty with some DIY projects. Paper crafts like hanging bats, skeleton garlands, and cut-out pumpkins are fun and cheap with just a little black and orange construction paper.
Old jars can be repurposed into spooky lanterns with a coat of black paint and some tea lights, and empty toilet paper rolls can be used to create glowing eyes by adding a small LED light inside. With a few basic supplies and creativity, you can give your home a haunted makeover without spending much.
8. Neighbourhood trick-or-treating
Trick-or-treating is a Halloween staple and a great way to enjoy the holiday for free! If your neighbourhood or building is participating, all you need is a costume and a bag for candy. If not, gather some neighbours and organise a simple trick-or-treat event for the community!
