Everything you need to conjure up a night of spooktacular delights and frights
The leaves are falling and you can’t move for pumpkin spice lattes, which can only mean that Halloween is looming. It’s time to stock up on decorations, dress-up essentials and ghoulishly good trick-or-treat extras, so we’ve rounded up everything you need to creep it real this All Hallows’ Eve.
Classic dress-up
Often the best kids’ Halloween costumes are the classics; bat wings, a spider headband or a skeleton onesie (opt for glow in the dark so you can easily spot your child while trick or treating). For the finishing touches, face paints, of course.
Not-so-spooky outfits
For toddlers and under-5s you still want to – and can – celebrate all things spooky, but the only thing frightening about these outfits is how cute they are. It’s all about the accessories, so don’t forget to bring a bag to stash their trick-or-treat goodies.
Double-duty characters
Harry Potter, a Disney princess or a Pokémon are ideal for Halloween, yes, but also for everyday dress-up; choosing their favourite character means you get the ultimate cost-per-wear ratio. Smiles guaranteed.
Creepy crafts
This year, Halloween falls at the end of half term. Make the most of the spooky season, while also keeping the little ghouls entertained, with LEGO-set building, seasonal toys, crafting projects or a sewing or crochet kit.
Cosy story time
Get your Halloween plushies – check out just-landed brand Mon Ami for some super-cute new faces, such as DracuDog – and settle down on the sofa with snacks and your favourite spooky story.
Halloween extras
Contrary to popular belief, there are sugar-free ways to mark All Hallows’ Eve – whether through fun gifting ideas, ranging from stationery to toys, or decorations that will last longer than the doorstep pumpkin that you lovingly carved.
Halloween FAQs
What should I look out for in a trick-or-treat costume?
Buy costumes one size up to allow for base layers in case of cold weather, and ensure hems sit above ground level. All John Lewis costumes conform to UK toy safety standards (BS EN 71). Be careful around any flames, such as the candles inside pumpkins – consider replacing these with LED candles or lights.
Can John Lewis’ kids’ Halloween costumes be washed?
It’s always best to check the individual care specifications. However, many popular character outfits are sponge-clean only. If the garment gets very dirty, try a hand wash in a basin of lukewarm water with a mild soap. Do not wring or twist the costume; squeeze the water out gently and hang each item up to air dry.
How do I choose a Halloween costume for a child with sensory sensitivities?
Choose breathable, gentle materials such as cotton, fleece or bamboo instead of stiff, scratchy polyester, lace or sequins. Avoid masks that obstruct vision or breathing, and skip sticky face paints. Cut out interior tags or go for soft pyjamas – at Halloween anything goes!
