10 Times People Were So Proud Of Their Outdoor Halloween Decorations, They Had to Share Them
The spookiest time of the year is almost upon us and people aren’t holding back with their decorations. Many started shopping before October already and retail experts say spending is set to reach $11.6 billion, in the U.S. alone. Most of those polled in a recent survey gave a resounding “yes” when asked whether they’d celebrate Halloween this year.
Pictolic has scoured the net to find the most spooktacular selection of houses that scream Halloween. From those covered in spider webs to witches perched on the roof, some families have left their neighbors spellbound with creepy and creative exterior decorations. Keep scrolling for some thrilling inspiration on how you can turn your home into a true house of horrors. Don’t miss the chat we had with WalletHub's financial writer and analyst, Chip Lupo, about how to keep your spending in check during this time.
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#1 Shortly After I Posted My Coven Display "Weekend Of Witches," It Was Purchased By A Private Art Collector And Then Since Been Stored In A Climate Controlled Facility
The witches, skeletons, and ghosts come out to play on the last day of October every year. Halloween has become a fun and freaky tradition over the years, for both young and old. According to the National Retail Federation, most people spend around $104 each celebrating the occasion. Almost half of those polled said they started shopping before October. They’re mainly forking out money on candy, home decorations, and of course, creative costumes.
"For the exteriors of their homes, Americans often spend on Halloween-related items such as pumpkins, lights, inflatables, and themed decorations that create a spooky atmosphere," said Wallethub’s financial analyst and writer, Chip Lupo during our interview. "One key statistic worth noting is that 52% of people plan to decorate their homes for Halloween, which makes it an integral part of the holiday’s projected $11.6 billion in spending for 2024."
#2 My First Halloween Door
Lupo added that consumers should watch their spending carefully in the run-up to Halloween. "It’s wise to prioritize purchases that bring the most enjoyment while avoiding unnecessary splurges for expensive items such as single-use costumes," he said, adding that DIY options for costumes and decorations can help save money. Lupo suggests that people stick to a budget so that "the fun of Halloween doesn’t turn into financial stress."
According to the experts, many people fall into the trap of wasting money on Halloween. "Pricey store-bought costumes, especially those with face-covering masks that children often discard because they’re uncomfortable are among the biggest Halloween money-wasters," he said.
He again stressed that making your costume at home with materials you already have not only costs less but allows for more creativity and family bonding. "Other common money-wasters include excessive decorations or items that are only used once and discarded, such as intricate inflatables or expensive themed décor that doesn’t get reused," added Lupo.
#3 Full-Sized Aragon I Built For A Harry Potter Party
I made this back in 2018 for a Harry Potter-themed Halloween party. It took a few weeks to complete, and I eventually sold it to a shop in Italy called the Lucky Pot. It's still there today.
Halloween is meant to be a night of fun but it does come with risks. "One of the biggest concerns is child pedestrian safety, as Halloween sees a fourfold increase in pedestrian fatalities among children," cautioned Lupo. He suggested that parents dress their children in reflective clothing, make sure they stick to well-lit areas, and stay in groups. "Adult supervision is crucial for younger children," he said.
Another risk is fires. "790 Halloween-related fires cause an estimated $14 million in property damage every year," revealed Lupo. "Using battery-operated lights instead of candles in decorations, especially in pumpkins, can help prevent accidents."
And of course, in this day and age, parents might want to inspect their children's candy to ensure it’s safe to eat. Lastly, Lupo warned those celebrating to practice common sense. "With 45% of Halloween night motor vehicle deaths involving drunk driving, it's important to plan for sober transportation when attending parties. Taking these steps will help ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween for everyone."
#4 This Full-Sized Dragon Decoration Someone Put On Their House For Halloween
#5 House I Saw Earlier Today. Note To Self Don’t Walk Here At Night
#6 The Season Is Upon Us! Starting A Little Early With The Webbing, Being A Little Time-Consuming, And All The Rest Will Slowly Make Their Way Out. Happy Haunting, Everyone
If Google trends are anything to go by, the most popular Halloween costume of 2024 is going to be the Beetlejuice Shrunken Head Bob. But the number two spot might come as a surprise. People are scrambling to dress up as none other than the Australian breakdancer, "Raygun". In case you missed it, Rachael Gunn, who goes by the stage name "Raygun", almost broke the internet with her Paris Olympics routine this year.
As the BBC reported, the 37-year-old university lecturer failed to score any points in all three of her competition rounds in Paris, “with a routine that included unorthodox moves, such as the sprinkler and the kangaroo hop.” There were memes aplenty following her performance. And some even accused her of making a mockery of the sport. Nonetheless, "Raygun" was controversially ranked the world's number one breakdancer in September this year. And we should expect to see many versions of her walking (or hopping) the streets come Halloween.
#7 I Made Skeletons Riding Vultures
#8 Some Pictures Of My Creations: Night vs. Day
#9 Haunted Tree Fantasy
Ever since The Wizard of Oz, I’ve wanted to have a spooky tree. Next year I might add a burl hole with an owl! I don’t have a lot of faith that this guy is sealed to the elements, but the season will tell.
The third most-wanted Halloween costume this year goes to “Catnap” from Poppy Playtime. "Poppy Playtime" is a horror game of survival set in an abandoned toy factory. So it’s not too surprising that the characters are a hit for Halloween enthusiasts who are planning to dress up on the night.
#10 This Halloween Scarecrow Appeared Just Down The Street From Me. It Looks Even Creepier At Night
Keywords: People | Halloween | Halloween costumes | Halloween decorations | Holidays