It’s Spooky Season! Honestly, I love fall most of all. But trips to the apple orchard, candy, costumes, parties, and more can add up quickly. This year, let’s keep all of the frights out of your bank account. After all, we all enjoy treats more than tricks. Here are a few Halloween Money Saving Tips.
Look For Free Events
Yes, there are plenty of paid attractions during the last couple of weeks of October. However, there are also a plethora of free events, too. From school carnivals to trunk-or-treat to events hosted by the local community center, you can find plenty to do without dropping big bucks. In Indianapolis, I’m always quick to check out Indy with Kids for the 411 on what you can do without spending much during special holidays. And don’t forget to look at Visit Indy’s calendar, too. WTHR has an amazing calendar that allows you to search events, too. And no matter where you live, looking at your local library, parks department, school, or church websites will help you quickly identify all sorts of free fun.
If you’re choosing to go somewhere that does charge admission, do a quick search for coupons and/or Groupons. Set a budget on the extras before you go, too. Taking cash helps to limit ourselves and our kids when there’s lots to do and eat.
Be Smart About Decor
Avoid purchasing too much more Halloween decor now. Or if you do purchase something that can be used through the month of November too. Quite honestly, I’m trying to stay out of the stores right now. There’s a lot of cute merchandise and if I don’t see it, I can’t buy it. Always look for solid color items that are fall themed and can be used September – November. A leaf garland or some plain pumpkins have more value than Halloween specific items. Orange napkins can be used longer, too.
Pick Up Grocery Store Pumpkins
A pumpkin patch pumpkin is super fun, but if you’re looking to save you’ll find a better deal at the grocery store or warehouse big box retailer like Costco or Sam’s Club. By the way, I’ve really struggled with squirrels gnawing away at my pumpkins this year. If you are too, try wiping down your pumpkin with a paper towel soaked in white vinegar. It’s a safe way to deter those hungry squirrels. ALDI has pumpkins for $3.49 right now which definitely adds up in savings if you buy more than one pumpkin.
Go Bulk on Candy
Whether at a Warehouse store like Costco or Sam’s Club or an online retailer like Amazon, you may be able to save money by buying candy in bulk. As always, pay attention to price per unit or price per ounce. And be sure that shopping at one of these stores doesn’t lead to unnecessary purchases. It’s not a deal if you also come home with a big screen TV and a diamond ring. Also do your best to estimate how much candy you’ll actually need. Don’t overbuy because you’ll end up eating it all. If you shop for candy at a big box retailer or grocery store, be sure to look for coupons when you can!
Consider Candy Alternatives
Stickers, playdough, small toys or trinkets, glow sticks – all can be used next year if you have leftovers. Plus, I love having these alternatives on hand for kids that have allergies. Just be sure you store your surplus of goodies on November 1 so you know where they are next Halloween.
Halloween should be fun! Don’t overspend and take all of the joy out of a yearly tradition. Focus on what you can do and afford instead of spending money you don’t have. After all, more holidays are just around the corner.
My book is now available: Slaying the Debt Dragon: How One Family Conquered Their Money Monster and Found an Inspired Happily Ever After. You can also check out The Debt Free Devotional
This post contains an affiliate link. That means when you get a great deal, learn about a way to save, or maybe even something for free, I may end up making a small commission. All prices are subject to change.
