Save Money on Halloween Candy and Costumes
Best Deals on Treats and Outfits for Adults and Children
Sep 21, 2009
Money is tight with consumers trying to save for Christmas and still have enough money to make Halloween a fun and exciting time for children. It's easy to spend less on preparations for October 31st, while still sending kids out trick-or-treating in scary style!
How to Save Money on Halloween Costumes
Try making the costumes. Especially with little kids, a simple sheet (for a fun ghost costume!) or silly makeup will make for a fun night knocking on doors. Older kids love to dress up in their parents' old cheerleader or football uniforms, or even a worn out suit makes for a great "bum" or "nerd" ensemble.
Try thrift stores for vintage costumes. Discount stores often offer better deals than department stores. And by doing an internet search for costumes in the area, one might be able to locate special warehouse Halloween stores that open only seasonally. Also, don't be afraid to ask friends, relatives or neighbors to borrow costumes. One neighbor might have a great costume from year's past that she is willing to swap. In fact, costume swapping might even become an annual neighborhood tradition! And a great excuse for a pre-Halloween party!
How to Save Money on Halloween Candy
Shop early! Drug stores might have sales or coupon specials in late September, but once October rolls around, forget it. Parents will probably end up paying full price. Still, do an internet search for discount candy. Places like Amazon might offer some great deals until mid October. Warehouse clubs like Sam's and Costco are great places to search. So what if shoppers have to buy more than they need. One can always save the candy for Christmas and New Year's. Simply wrap treats with holiday ribbon, and they make great stocking stuffers.
Alternatives to Candy this Halloween
Instead of handing out sweet treats, many people are opting to hand out stickers or coins instead. Even fruit foll-ups and boxes of raisins or pre-wrapped dried fruit are better options for those looking to cut down on sugar and calories. Even brightly colored pencils and erasers are great to hand to trick-or-treaters. Many parents will appreciate the gesture!
And if parents want their trick-or-treaters to get a better understanding of world culture, sign up for UNICEF's Halloween program. Little ghosts and goblins can collect for charity, and they will also receive mailings throughout the year about what their contributions are doing to help kids all over the world.
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