Affordable & Fun Things to Do This Halloween
Halloween is one of those magical times of year — pumpkins on porches, costumes everywhere, and kids buzzing with excitement. But between candy, décor, and costumes, it’s easy for spending to spiral.
Good news: Halloween can be just as fun (and maybe even more meaningful) when you keep it simple. Here are 10 affordable and creative ways to celebrate Halloween while keeping your budget intact.
1. Host a DIY Costume Night
Skip pricey store costumes and get creative at home.
👗 Mix and match old clothes, cardboard, or makeup to design something unique.
💡 Try a “Costume Swap Night” with friends or neighbors — it’s fun and totally free!
2. Have a Halloween Movie Marathon
Popcorn, blankets, and family favorites — that’s all you need.
🎥 Watch Hocus Pocus, Casper, or Hotel Transylvania.
🍿 Add some hot chocolate and dim lighting for the perfect cozy night in.
3. Go Pumpkin Picking — or DIY at Home
You don’t need an expensive pumpkin patch for fall vibes.
🎃 Grab pumpkins from a local grocery store or market.
🎨 Paint or carve them at home and roast the seeds for a budget-friendly treat.
4. Create a Spooky Scavenger Hunt
Hide treats, toys, or glow sticks around your house or yard.
🔦 Add silly clues or spooky riddles for extra fun.
It’s a hit with kids — and costs next to nothing.
5. Visit a Local Fall Festival or Trunk-or-Treat
Most towns, churches, or community centers host free or low-cost Halloween events.
🚗 These are safe, fun, and great for meeting neighbors.
Check your local Facebook events or community calendar!
6. Bake Halloween Treats Together
Turn your kitchen into a Halloween bakery.
🍪 Try ghost-shaped cookies or “monster cupcakes.”
🎃 Kids love decorating — and you’ll save money skipping store-bought sweets.
7. Decorate with What You Have
You don’t need a big box of store decorations.
🕸️ Cut paper bats, hang orange string lights, or use black trash bags for spooky backdrops.
Let the kids join in — the messier, the better!
8. Take a Twilight Walk or Drive to See Decorations
Pack some cocoa, play Halloween music, and explore your neighborhood at night.
🚶♀️ It’s free, festive, and full of inspiration for next year.
9. “Boo” Your Neighbor
Surprise someone with a small bag of treats or homemade goodies and a note that says, “You’ve been boo’d!”
🎁 It’s a low-cost way to spread Halloween cheer and build community spirit.
10. Throw a Frugal Family Party
You don’t need to rent a venue to have fun.
🎉 Play Halloween bingo, have a mini dance-off, or make a simple spooky photo booth with bedsheets.
🕯️ Keep snacks and décor simple — it’s the memories that matter most.
Final Thoughts: Halloween Magic on a Budget
Halloween is about creativity, laughter, and connection — not competition or overspending.
With a little imagination, you can create an unforgettable experience for your family without breaking the bank.
✨ Remember: Joy doesn’t come from your budget size, but from how you use it.
