Published 10/22/25
Boo-tiful Halloween Ideas: Costumes, Decorations, Trick-or-Treating, & More
COSTUMES
Feel like you can’t think of what to wear this Halloween? Or, even worse, are you on a budget and have to DIY? Does every site you browse, full of endless lists of common, boring, typical costumes that you are forced to buy, and simply don’t apply to you? Not to worry! This is the MMS Penpoint’s guide to Halloween!
Single-Person Ideas
The Common Ghost
“Man, this site stinks. Do these writers even know how bad this costume is?”
Don't worry. If these are your thoughts at the moment, just continue down. However, if you are reading this on October 30th at midnight, I fear this may be a good choice for you.
Historical Figures: Cleopatra, George Washington, etc.
Historical figures are usually deep in meaning, but you can have lots of fun with them! Some figures are well-known for their charisma, hilariousness, and funny quotes and actions! Have fun and play around between learning and role-playing!
Your Favorite Sports Player
Throw on a jersey (or just draw the numbers on the back of the shirt) and some shorts and sneakers---simple and easy.
Movie/TV Show/Book Character (Cosplay)
These costumes range in variety in quality and effort. However, there is always a story to tell behind it.
Fantasy Creatures
Some fantasy creatures include elves, fairies, mermaids, zombies, witches, vampires, etc. A lot of these costumes look mystical and nice, and are a Halloween classic.
Onesie/Animal
Usually, these costumes are easy and do not require much effort. All you need is to paint something on your face (depending on the animal, whether it be a cat or snake) and put on the same color clothing.
Group Costumes
Food Condiments/Seasonings:
Mustard & Ketchup!
Salt & Pepper!
Peanut Butter & Jelly!
Media Characters (Duo, Trios, etc):
Minions & Gru!
Ratatouille & Chef!
SpongeBob & Patrick!
Siblings!
DECORATIONS
Halloween decorations don’t always have to be about orange, black, and purple– there can be personal embellishments! If you don’t know where to start, try thinking of a theme you want to express. Here are some ideas:
Classic Spooky - Typically includes ghosts, bats, pumpkins, cauldrons, and mysterious props. The overall vibe is a typical Halloween setting.
Haunted House - Creepy dolls, old books, antique mirrors, cobwebs, and an old-world style. The overall vibe creates an ancient, creepy feel.
Friendly Fall - Using warm colors and natural elements like hay blocks, gourds, squashes, and pumpkins of various sizes/colors, and a welcoming autumn display. Colors typically include beige, brown, yellow, white, and aesthetic themes.
Color Palette - Embrace an unconventional color palette, such as pink, yellow, green, etc., for a unique and memorable display. Many times, the Halloween decorations themselves stay the same, while the colors suit the person themself!
Monsters - Decorations featuring monsters, from friendly to terrifying, from cute to scary. Use googly eyes to create the desired effect!
Zombie Outbreak - go all out with realistic zombie props with stands, cardboard hanging all around the house! We personally recommend that you decorate the zombies with your own clothing to be realistic! This creates a scene of a zombie apocalypse.
TRICK-OR-TREATING TIPS
Use a pillowcase to hold a larger amount of candy.
The day only lasts for so long. Walk quickly.
Bring a source of light, whether it be a phone or a flashlight.
Go with someone else. (Stay safe!)
Go around the streets in a practical way. Don’t loop around!
Set a time to go home.
Talk and keep in touch with your parents!
There’s going to be a Scream Truck in the Glenwood area. The line may be very long. It will take a large chunk out of your limited time to trick or treat. (However, it is free!)
ARE YOU TOO OLD TO TRICK-OR-TREAT?
The age to stop trick-or-treating is purely by personal preference. For instance, some may not stop even when they are fully grown adults, while others may stop as soon as they become a teenager. Some high schoolers might storm the streets in the middle of the night, knocking on doors, holding their baskets out for candy. But sometimes, we just want to stay home watching scary movies and waiting for visitors to collect candy– no shame!
So, it’s up to you when to stop trick or treating, but don’t throw a fit if you get weird looks on the streets or if someone refuses to give you candy. Nevertheless, make sure to stay safe and have fun this Halloween!