It's the most wonderful time of the year! Spooky season, of course.
If you know me, you know I'm a bit of a year-round Halloween gal. I do most of my household décor shopping once the leaves begin to fall. Growing up, I remember Halloween very fondly. Dressing up in homemade costumes, decorating, pumpkin carving, candy! Who wouldn't love it? I continued my mom's tradition of going "all out." Decorating as soon as the calendar flips, brainstorming costumes well beforehand, and of course, the annual Halloween parties. There's something about spooky season that warms this chilly heart of mine.
Ever since I was young, I dreamed of having my own yard to scatter tombstones and bones across, light the front porch with purple lights, and flick on the fog machine for that added ambiance. I dreamed of creating my own haunted house style parties, as my mom had for my siblings and me. The universe delivered. Although the classic grape eyeballs turned into char-BOO- terie boards, and no one's bobbing for apples.
From hosting "Dexter" parties in my Papa's empty basement (plastic sheets, dismembered parts and all), to a good old-fashioned Monster-Mash, we've managed to host a few pretty spooktacular events over the years.
I've put together a list of my favourite decorations, party ideas, tricks, and treats!
Hanging Witch Hats
Third year running, and I don't plan on retiring the idea anytime soon. I love the look of the hats blowing in the wind. We've added hanging bats into the mix and stapled them to our porch ceiling; however, hanging from trees would have an even spookier effect.
Pro-tip: For an extra groovy look, attach a disco ball to the base of the hat
Harry Potter-Inspired Ceiling
I'll be trying this Harry Potter/Hogwarts inspired ceiling for Halloween this year! Check out this Instagram reel by @byhilaryrose for the tutorial.
DIY Gothic Candles
Another idea I plan on trying this year is these funky pool-noodle gothic candles. They're super spooky and super safe. View the DIY tutorial here by @thecraftaisle.
Fog Machine
Get the fog machine. Just do it. But wait for them to go on sale :)
Halloween Decor Sales & Thrifting
Speaking of sales. Who buys full-priced Halloween décor? As soon as the week of Halloween hits, stores HEAVILY discount their items. Stock up for the following year. Also, check out Facebook Marketplace and thrift stores for your spooky items.
Pumpkin Painting
Sick of carving pumpkins? Try painting them instead!
Spooky Light Bulbs
Switch out regular light bulbs for purple/red bulbs.
Fake Blood
Fake Blood. My final step of the decorating process is an excellent creepy addition to any home. Bloody handprints on mirrors, bathrooms, etc. You get the idea.
Char-BOO-terie Boards
Thank goodness for TikTok and Instagram. The ideas are endless! I really love these ideas from @ainttoproudtomeg
Pumpkin Drink Dispensers
Carve your pumpkin, empty it, and add a dispenser or a bagged version of your favourite bevvy.
Caldron Punch Bowl
Add dry ice for an eerie effect (drink responsibly and make sure to use dry ice correctly)!
What's your favourite Halloween trick... or treat?
Thanks for reading,
