Halloween 2024 is shaping up to be another thrilling celebration, with a slight dip in spending from last year’s record, but still reaching a remarkable $11.6 billion, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF). Early shopping continues to gain traction, with 47% of consumers starting their Halloween preparations before October—an increase from previous years. This year, 72% of people are planning to celebrate, spending an average of $104 per person.
As for trends, 2024 brings some exciting new twists to the spooky season. Halloween trees adorned with eerie ornaments are on the rise, along with decorative elements like snakes in gold and silver, moths, mirrored pumpkins, and glitter. Vintage halloween elements prevail, while non-human skeletons and simple, cute characters are also trending. Expect to see fresh color palettes, including white-washed tones and pink, orange, and yellow combinations, taking center stage this year.
Left/top: Moths embroidery kit from Stitched Stories. Center: Halloween Christmas tree from Michaels. Right/bottom: Carved floral snake wall art from Hykry.
Halloween Trees and Ornaments
Halloween-themed trees feature spooky twists with purple and orange lights, and a range of eerie ornaments. Expect to see mini pumpkins, ghosts, witches, and even mini cauldrons adorning these trees. Whether tabletop-sized or full-height, Halloween trees offer a fun, festive way to display your spooky spirit.
Non-human Skeletons
The classic skeleton is getting a twist this season. From pets like cats and dogs to fantastical creatures like unicorns, skeletons are breaking free from their human forms. These bony companions make for unique and playful decor, adding a quirky element to your Halloween setup.
Snakes and Moths
This Halloween, snakes and moths are taking center stage in decor, each bringing their own unique appeal. Snakes, often seen in gold and silver, are featured as striking emblems on wall hangings, rings, and bracelets. Frequently depicted as a curled, infinity-like form, these serpentine accents add a touch of mystery and elegance to the season. Moths, on the other hand, are celebrated for their beautiful patterns, showcased in home decor and embroidery kits, much like butterflies. Both snakes and moths are versatile enough to be worn or displayed year-round, as they don’t carry an overtly Halloween-centric feel.
Vintage Halloween
Halloween decor is stepping back in time with vintage-inspired pieces that bring an air of eerie nostalgia. Think paintings that evoke the mysterious charm of the turn of the century, along with candlesticks that look like they belong in a haunted manor. Classic literature, with excerpts from works like Frankenstein and Edgar Allan Poe’s stories, is also making its way into decor. Adding to the vintage feel are old family photos, Ouija boards, and other spooky, old-fashioned touches.
Simple, Cute Characters
For a lighthearted take on Halloween, whimsical and witchy elements are taking over with fun, goofy, and vibrant characters. From playful ghosts and colorful witches to cute animals, the trend embraces the cheerful side of spooky. Moons, mushrooms, and even dragons and butterflies are joining the cast of adorable Halloween icons. Haunted houses and villages are depicted with charm, while cute cats complete the ensemble, bringing a delightful touch to the holiday. These characters are perfect for those looking to celebrate Halloween with a fun, family-friendly vibe.
Candy Skulls Quilt Pattern by Margot Languedoc
Disco balls and gemstones
This year, disco balls and gemstones are bringing a touch of glamour to Halloween decor. Mirrored pumpkins, reminiscent of the disco era, and gemstone-adorned accents are making their way into homes. These dazzling elements create a fun and unexpected twist, blending the spooky with the sparkling for a fresh take on Halloween festivities.
This Halloween, whether you’re decorating with glittering mirrored pumpkins, hanging a skeleton unicorn in your living room, or embracing the cuteness of cheerful ghosts, the season promises to be full of surprises.
Kate Ankeny
Operations Manager and Outreach Coordinator
Kate has a background working in the arts non-profit, marketing, and design industries. She has coordinated with craft business owners to put on workshops, guest artist residencies, discussions, and large scale creative events. In her design business, she creates visual branding and promotional pieces for creative entrepreneurs. She lives in Silverthorne, Colorado.
Beautiful!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Great ideas
This is a lovely round up of such a diverse range of Halloween trends! Thanks for featuring my pumpkin embroidery!
Our pleasure. It’s so beautiful!