Retails from the Crypt

This year, Halloween spending is set to break records, casting a festive but even slightly spooky shadow over consumer wallets.  According to the National Retail Federation's annual survey, Americans are projected to shell out a chilling $13.1 billion, a climb from last year's $11.6 billion and surpassing 2023's previous high.  Despite concerns about higher prices, especially those bitten by the tariff vampire, nearly three-quarters of respondents still plan to celebrate, proving that not even inflation can scare off their Halloween spirits. The most popular activities this year will be the tried-and-true: handing out candy, donning costumes, and turning homes into haunted masterpieces.  Notably, there's a rise in eager party planners, pumpkin carvers, haunted house explorers, and pet owners preparing for their furry friends' debut as bumblebees, hot dogs, and pumpkins.

On the spending front, candy remains king (or perhaps villain?), with 66% of those surveyed expecting to purchase the sweets, claiming a monstrous $3.9 billion chunk of the budget.  Costume spending is outpacing outlays for goodies at $4.3 billion, while decorations spending is expected to reach $4.2 billion.  Greeting cards are creeping up in popularity, too.  On average, each consumer expects to spend a record $114.45, almost $11 more than last year and a definite sign that Americans are enjoying the spirit of the day.  Early shopping is also on the rise, with shoppers hitting the aisles in September or earlier to dodge last-minute stress when securing their favorite treats.

Where are these Halloween hopefuls getting their goods?  Discount stores are the top haunt, with more shoppers seeking bargains.  Specialty costume shops and online retailers are tied in popularity, and consumers are drawing inspiration from online searches, retail displays, friends and family.  Prices might be frightening, but that’s not the case in the relatively tame costume choices: Spider-Man, princesses, and classic witches top the ranks for kids, while adults are ready to vamp, bewitch, or channel their inner Batman.  Even pets are swept up in the magic, with a forecast of $860 million in new outfits (don’t tell my new dog, but he’ll don my old dog’s gear).  All in all, the retail industry seems ready to provide plenty of treats as long as shoppers can tolerate the tricks of higher prices and crowded aisles.