Top 10 budget-friendly Halloween activities

Halloween doesn’t need to be frightening for your wallet. With a little creativity, you can enjoy all the spooky fun without overspending.

Whether you’re celebrating with family, friends, or the whole neighbourhood, here are ten budget-friendly Halloween activities to get you in the spirit.

1. DIY costume challenge

Instead of buying an expensive outfit, raid your wardrobe, borrow from friends, or get crafty with old clothes and accessories.

Challenge your family to create costumes from things you already own - you’ll save money and spark creativity.

2. Pumpkin carving (or painting)

Carving pumpkins is a Halloween classic, but if you want to make it last longer, try painting them instead.

Acrylic paints or even markers can give pumpkins personality without the mess. Bonus: roast the pumpkin seeds for a tasty, low-cost snack.

3. Spooky movie night at home

Skip the cinema and create your own eerie atmosphere at home.

Dim the lights, make some homemade popcorn, and watch a mix of family-friendly favourites or spooky classics.

4. Host a Halloween potluck

Instead of shouldering all the costs of a party, invite friends or neighbours and ask everyone to bring a dish.

This spreads out the cost, reduces waste, and makes for a fun, shared feast.

5. Halloween-themed scavenger hunt

Hide small treats, decorations, or clues around the house or garden and set up a spooky scavenger hunt.

It’s especially fun for kids and can be pulled together with things you already have.

6. Upcycled decorations

Forget expensive shop-bought décor. Use old jars as lanterns, paper bags for luminaries, and scrap fabric for ghosts.

A little imagination can turn everyday items into spine-chilling decorations.

7. Bake creepy (but cheap!) treats

Get into the kitchen and whip up Halloween-inspired snacks. Think gingerbread men turned into skeletons with icing, or biscuits decorated like pumpkins.

It’s cheaper than store-bought sweets and a fun activity to do together.

8. Trick-or-treat alternatives

If you’re looking to save on buying loads of sweets, consider offering small homemade treats, stickers, or even spooky jokes written on slips of paper.

Kids love surprises - and it can help your budget.

9. Storytelling by candlelight

Turn off the lights, light a few candles, and share ghost stories. It’s an activity that costs nothing but creates lasting memories.

For little ones, you can keep it light-hearted with silly or funny stories.

10. Neighbourhood décor walk

Instead of paying for pricey events, take a stroll around your neighbourhood to admire Halloween decorations.

Many communities go all-out, and it’s a free way to soak up the festive atmosphere.

Have a happy Halloween!

Halloween is all about fun, creativity, and community - not about overspending. With these simple ideas, you can enjoy a frightfully good time while keeping your finances on track.

At Novuna Personal Finance, we believe every little saving helps, especially during seasonal celebrations. By making small changes, you can enjoy the things you love while staying in control of your budget.