5 ideas on how to have a sustainable Halloween this year

Halloween is a time for spooky fun, but it can also be a time of excess—think plastic decorations, single-use costumes, and mountains of candy wrappers. Fortunately, with a bit of creativity and planning, you can enjoy a festive Halloween while also being kind to the planet. Here’s how to go green this spooky season and celebrate a more sustainable Halloween.

Halloween costumes are often worn just once, then discarded. Instead of buying a brand-new costume, consider these eco-friendly options:

• DIY Costumes: Use items you already have at home or visit a thrift store to create a unique, one-of-a-kind costume. Not only is this more sustainable, but it’s also a fun way to get creative with your kids.

• Costume Swap: Organize a costume swap with friends, family, or your community. This way, everyone gets a "new" costume without the waste.

• Rent or Borrow: If you’re set on a specific costume, consider renting it or borrowing from a friend. This reduces waste and ensures the costume gets more use.

Decorating your home is a big part of Halloween fun, but it doesn’t have to come at the expense of the environment. Here’s how to decorate sustainably:

• Natural Decor: Use pumpkins, gourds, and autumn leaves to create beautiful, biodegradable decorations. After Halloween, these can be composted or used as wildlife feed.

• DIY Upcycled Decorations: Get crafty with upcycled materials. Old fabric, paper, and glass jars can be transformed into spooky ghosts, lanterns, and more.

• LED Lights: If you’re using lights, opt for energy-efficient LED string lights. They last longer and use less energy, making them a better choice for the environment.

Halloween wouldn’t be complete without candy, but the waste from wrappers can add up. Here are some tips for reducing candy-related waste:

• Buy in Bulk: Purchase candy in bulk to reduce packaging. Look for treats with recyclable packaging, or consider giving out non-candy items like stickers, pencils, or small toys.
• Homemade Treats: If you’re hosting a party, make homemade treats like cookies, popcorn balls, or candied apples. These can be packaged in reusable or compostable containers.
• Reusable Trick-or-Treat Bags: Instead of using plastic bags or disposable containers, opt for reusable trick-or-treat bags made from cloth or other durable materials.

After the Halloween festivities are over, be mindful of what you’re throwing away. Many decorations and costumes can be reused or recycled:

• Store Decorations for Next Year: Invest in quality decorations that can be used year after year. Properly store them so they stay in good condition.
• Compost Organic Materials: Pumpkins, gourds, and other natural decorations can be composted instead of thrown in the trash.
• Donate Unwanted Costumes: If you have costumes or decorations you no longer need, consider donating them to a local charity or school for others to use.

If you’re hosting a Halloween party, take steps to reduce its environmental impact:

• Digital Invitations: Skip the paper invites and send digital invitations instead. They’re quick, easy, and waste-free.
• Zero-Waste Partyware: Use reusable plates, cups, and utensils instead of disposables. If you must use disposables, choose compostable options.
• Locally-Sourced Food: Serve snacks and treats made from locally-sourced ingredients. This supports local farmers and reduces the carbon footprint of your party.

Celebrating a sustainable Halloween doesn’t mean sacrificing fun—it just means making more mindful choices that are better for the planet. By choosing eco-friendly costumes, reducing waste, and being thoughtful about decorations and party planning, you can enjoy a festive, green Halloween that’s spooky in all the right ways.

Ready to start your sustainable Halloween journey? Check out our collections for eco-friendly clothing and accessories that are perfect for the season!