While beautiful tablescapes, fog, and lights are a great addition to any Halloween event, the reality is that sometimes decorations and food can be super costly. However, by using what you already have and taking a trip or two the Dollar Store and Publix, you will have all the basics for a great party. Keep it to the essentials: food, décor, and entertainment.
For a Halloween-themed party, the first and most important food is candy of course! You and your friends can split the cost of buying a few bags and use them in different recipes. Grab some markers, divide the candy into Ziplocs, and decorate them with phrases like “Trick or Treat” and “Happy Halloween.” For a large dessert, Spooky Gummy Mud Pie is a great and inexpensive idea. All you need are gummy worms, pudding, and Oreos. Start by filling a large bowl with the pudding of your choice, and then add a layer of crumbled Oreos. Alternate layers of pudding and crushed cookies, and top it all off by sticking in some colorful gummy worms.
Cookies are always a crowd pleaser, and pre-made recipes make it easer on you and your wallet! Around the holiday season, companies like Pillsbury make cookie dough that’s already pre-stamped with themed images, like ghosts and pumpkins. All that’s left for you to do is pop the cookies on a baking sheet and put them in the oven.
Another inexpensive idea is trail mix. Some batches even come with candy already mixed in. Purchase some candy corn and pretzels, throw it all together, and there you have it!
When decorating your place, keep it cute and simple. Start by decorating your door and greeting your guests with a ghost or Frankenstein. With paper plates, construction paper, and markers, cut out large shapes to make a face, eyes, and other details that will make your door stand out. Try balling up toilet paper to make small hanging ghosts, or adding plastic spiders to an ice cube tray for a frightening addition to any drink! Discount stores like The Dollar Store and Dollar General also carry an array of cute and super cheap decorations, like spider webs, skeletons, and lights.
Creating a great atmosphere and keeping your friends entertained is important. Set a spooky mood by searching Spotify and Pandora for Halloween-themed playlists. Ask your friends to bring their favorite scary movies and enjoy them on the big screen. Here are some great horror and comedy titles that everyone can enjoy:
Young Frankenstein
Hocus Pocus
Halloweentown
Paranorman
It’s The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown
Shaun of The Dead
Amityville Horror
The Poltergeist
Paranormal Activity
Rosemary’s Baby
Silence of The Lambs
Saw
The Conjuring
The Blair Witch Project
Let’s face it: whether you are planning a small get together for you and your girlfriends, or you’ve invited your entire class and your boyfriend’s frat over for a big bash, these tips will help you plan an Insta-worthy party that wont break your bank!