6 Ways to Save on Halloween Expenses This Year
October 10, 2012While it seems the Fourth of July is barely in the rear view mirror, we’re already on the verge of Halloween. This holiday is a particular favorite with kids, so many parents are willing to let cost go out the window when shopping for supplies. But with some common sense and a bit of planning, you can create a memorable All Hallow’s Eve without killing your bank account.
Here are some tips to get you started:
1. Save on Costumes
When thinking of ways to shave Halloween expenses, saving on Halloween costumes is one of the easiest. They tend to go on sale early, so start watching for circulars or online announcements. Next, consider creating a homemade costume – it’s easier than you think. You can even involve your little ones in the process to make it fun family fare.
And believe it or not, October 13 is National Costume Swap Day. Join in by organizing a costume exchange in your neighborhood or at your kids’ school. Plus, check the deal-of-the-day websites such as Groupon and Living Social. Depending on where you live, those offers are happening now.
2. Hit the Dollar Store for Supplies
Discount outlets are ripe pickings on any annual holiday. You don’t need to keep the supplies for long and they’re super inexpensive. If you’re hosting a Halloween party, use the dollar store to outfit your house with cheap DIY Halloween decorations. You’ll find orange and black plates, cutlery, plastic pumpkins and spooky gauze and even wall decorations. It’s a frightfest bonanza at a far from frightful price.
3. Don’t Give Out Candy
Now, no one is suggesting that you hide in the bedroom to avoid giving out the sweet stuff. Instead, take your trick-or-treaters out during peak candy-giving times. If you aren’t home, no one can get mad that you’re not answering the door. And if you need to have something on hand for the latecomers, consider inexpensive alternatives to cavity causers.
4. Buy Candy in Bulk and Monitor Disbursement
If you absolutely must offer candy, consider buying it in bulk from a local warehouse retailer such as Sam’s Club or Costco or go online to a holiday bulk site like OrientalTrading.com. Then, instead of holding out the bowl and letting the kids grab handfuls and ravage your supply, dole out a proper amount to each child. It’s cost conscious for you and healthier for them.
5. Sell Your Sweets
When all is said and done, do something to avoid having the candy laying around. Recoup some of the costs and do some good by donating yours to be sent off to sugar-starved troops overseas at websites such as OperationShoebox.com or OperationGratitude.com. A network of dentists nationwide has joined forces with these sites to get the snacks off the streets – and will pay up to $1 per pound for Halloween candy. Plus, it’s tax-deductible.
6. Keep the Party to a Minimum
As fun as Halloween is, it’s just one quick holiday. And though you could go all out to impress your friends, it might not make financial sense. For starters, skip the alcohol. Halloween falls on a Wednesday this year, and who wants to be fuzzy headed on a Thursday anyway? You can still have a blast with Halloween party snack recipes without spending a ton, and when the major holidays arrive in a couple months, you’ll be glad you did.
Final Thoughts
After Halloween is but a memory, look for ways to save on next year’s celebration. Keep as many of your accessories as possible. Decorations, unused plates, cutlery, and napkins can all be stored away. When this scary good day rolls around again, you’ll have that much more on hand.
What other ways can you think of to save on Halloween expenses this year?