It’s high time you bring a spooky vibe to your home. Fall and Halloween are right around the corner. Spruce up your space with Halloween and fall decor that’s sure to impress. Incorporate classics like ghosts and pumpkins to add a some ghoulishly good fun to any room in the house.
Below, the best Halloween and fall decor for your home. From a spooky village to a ghostly pillow, these items will get you in the spirit of the season. This reviewer-loved decor works within a variety of budgets. Also be sure to shop the best Halloween lawn decorations in 2023 to make your outdoor space feel more festive.
The best Halloween and fall decor for your home
Find this Halloween and fall decor at Pottery Barn, Williams Sonoma, Terrain and more.
Concordville spooky village
Buy each piece to this delightfully spooky village. There’s a mausoleum, a chateau, a gate, a haunted house, two half houses, tombstones, an iron tree and more.
Prices for each piece run from $18 to $78. You can buy a gilded leaves table to display it for $1,198, but it also looks great on a space like a mantle or coffee table.
Why we like this spooky village:
This spooky village is delightful to adults and kids alike. Pair it with color-changing lights to up the magic factor.
Gus the Ghost with pumpkin pillow
This adorable throw blanket/pillow hybrid is named Gus. This soft ghost who holds a pumpkin makes an excellent addition to your couch or bed.
See how other shoppers styled it on the Pottery Barn site.
Why we like this pillow:
This comfy pillow reads more cute than spooky.
Peanuts Halloween tableware
Find a selection of Peanuts Halloween tableware at Williams Sonoma. These practical items double as decor, featuring Halloween-ready characters from Snoopy to Charlie Brown.
Find mugs, platters, plates, bowls, juice glasses and more in this collection. The glazed stoneware is microwavable and dishwasher safe.
Prices range from $15 to $60.
Why we like this tableware:
Kids will love this tableware that incorporates a Halloween classic. Bring it out each year to signal the start of the season.
West Elm glass pumpkins
These chic recycled glass pumpkins from West Elm make for ideal display pieces on your mantel. They’re available in three color variations, two sizes and to be purchased as individual pieces or a pair.
Prices range from $30 to $85.
Why we like these pumpkins:
These pumpkins aren’t too flashy but add a festive touch.
The Pioneer Woman 10-inch ceramic pumpkin pie plate with lid
Check out The Pioneer Woman’s take on the fall season at Walmart. This 10-inch ceramic pumpkin pie plate with a lid doubles as decor. It’ll make an excellent fall centerpiece on your table.
This pie plate comes in an orange and a cream color. It’s also dishwasher safe.
Why we like this pie plate:
You’re getting great bang for your buck with this pie plate that doubles as decor.
Brush pumpkins (set of 3)
There’s no such thing as too many pumpkins. Use these brush pumpkins as decor accents.
Choose from two color directions in this set of three pumpkins. One has neutral hues while the other features purples.
These sweet pumpkins are handcrafted and intended for indoor use only.
Why we like these pumpkins:
You can add these pumpkins anywhere, from your mantle to your tablescape, to offer a fall touch.
Rifle Paper Co. Halloween trick-or-treat garland
Add this cute, handmade trick-or-treat garland from Rifle Paper Co. to a kids’ room, or use it as decor for a party. This 84-inch-long garland is made from wool and is adorned with festive jack-o-lanterns and stars. There are loops on each end of this garland for hanging.
Why we like this garland:
This sweet garland announces that trick-or-treat season is here.
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Carolin Lehmann
Carolin Lehmann is an expert in health, fitness, furniture, apparel, gift guides and books for CBS Essentials. She’s always testing new products to recommend. Some of her current favorites include Stanley cups, Alo Yoga workout sets and the Cuzen matcha maker.
Target’s fall home decor is here, and no surprise, I want everything. The pumpkins, candles and extra cozy throws hit the retailer a couple of weeks ago, but now that Labor Day has come and gone, we can finally turn our full attention to all things fall.
For me, Target’s candles — specifically the Heritage Pumpkin scent — are a seasonal favorite. However, you may be excited to hear that Joanna Gaines’ Hearth & Hand with Magnolia brand has a few new launches for the season, and so does Shea McGee of Studio McGee with Threshold.
You can go to your local Target to see the fall decor on display, or you can shop the wider selection online. But I should warn you — shopping online is a lot like shopping in store. You may go online thinking you know what you want, but you’ll probably end up buying a lot more. And with so much good stuff, I don’t blame you.
Prepare your bank account and take a look below at a few sure-to-be top sellers from the new fall collection to get you started.
1. Stanley 40oz Stainless Steel H2.0 Flowstate Quencher Tumbler – Hearth & Hand™ with Magnolia, $45
Full disclosure: This isn’t new this month. But this summer, Hearth & Hand with Magnolia collaborated with Stanley on a few new fall-appropriate colors for its iconic tumbler. The newer colors include brown, navy, dark green, taupe, white and a light green.
2. Teddy Boucle Throw Blanket – Threshold, $49
Teddy or sherpa fabrics aren’t going anywhere this year. Snag this extra cozy teddy blanket in three colors to drape over your bed or curl up with on the sofa.
This is a pumpkin-scented candle in an actual pumpkin — too cute. It even takes things to the next level with a wooden wick, which crackles like a fireplace.
4. Large Champagne Glass Pumpkin – Threshold, $25
You can never have enough pumpkin decor. Grab this pretty glass pumpkin for Halloween and Thanksgiving festivities. It’s not too spooky or Halloween-specific, so you really can keep it out all season long.
5. Fall Floral Branch – Threshold, $15
Build your own gorgeous fall floral display with these single branches. You can pair a few of them together or pair them with other faux florals for the season in your favorite vase.
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Kelly Clarkson, the first-ever American Idol winner and writer of early aughts hits such as ‘Since U Been Gone’ and ‘Because of You’ is seemingly unstoppable. Her 2009 song ‘My Life Would Suck Without You’ still holds the record for the biggest jump to number one in the chart’s history, and she has hosted her own talk show since 2019. Kelly’s latest venture has brought her into the world of design, and we are here for it. One look at the Kelly Clarkson Home collection provides infinite fall decor ideas.
The Voice judge and mom of two became the world’s first American Wayfair brand partner in 2020, launching the Kelly Clarkson Home collection in 2022. This exclusive assemblage of furniture and decor is inspired by the artist and her Texan roots. The pieces are bright and stylish to reflect Kelly Clarkson’s personality. They also have a distinctly Southern flair inspired by their eponymous designer.
The chart-topping singer’s collection has all the pieces you could possibly need from living room furniture to dining room furniture, to lighting and decor, and even outdoor furniture. Each style is available in a range of colors, perfect for your fall color scheme.
To celebrate the fast-approaching fall, we scoured the collection for the chicest, and coziest pieces from Kelly Clarkson Home at Wayfair.
Autumnal decor is all about warmth. Colors like browns and other warm neutrals, jewel tones, and deep burgundy reds come to mind: everything needed for a color scheme that mimics the changing of the leaves at this time of year. Cozy fabrics like luxurious cashmere and snuggly wool blends are also a must as a crisp chill creeps into the air. The Kelly Clarkson Home collection serves all of this and more.
From fall table decor to homey throw blankets, our top picks from the collection will get your home ready for spooky season. Shop below.
Weathered Pumpkin Set
This set of two waterproof pumpkin decorations is hand-painted in a weathered hue that makes them look like real gourds. The larger pumpkin is 6′ high and the smaller is 5′ tall. The weathered pumpkins make the perfect addition to all fall table setting.
Saffron and Light Gray Rug
A yellow, blue, and light gray rug will add a touch of brightness and coziness to your living room this fall. Made of polypropylene, this stylish rug is power loomed in Turkey to withstand significant foot traffic and stains. Available in several sizes for any room.
Remy Cotton Throw Pillow
This decorative pillow is your coziest cable-knit sweater in pillow form. The 20″ square cover is made of 100% cotton with a plush feather and down pillow insert included. The hand-curated by Kelly Clarkson pillow is perfect for snuggling up on the sofa or as a throw pillow on the bed.
Handmade Chunky Throw
This cozy, 100% acrylic throw blanket is perfect for nestling with a mug of tea this autumn. It is double-knitted by hand for a stylish, chunky look. The 60 inch length gives the blanket the perfect amount of drape on the couch or at the end of the bed. Available in 9 muted hues.
Cotton Table Runner
This textural table runner is made of ivory cotton for long-lasting style. The boho chic look of the tasseled ends and decorative pom poms grants this table linen a warm and cozy feel. Perfect for all of your fall dinner parties and long enough that it allows you to place an autumnal centerpiece on top.
Timber Pillar Candles
This 3-piece set of pillar candles comes in a stylish timber color, perfect for September and beyond. The clean burning candles are made of refined food-grade paraffin, large enough to burn for 100 hours. All wicks are made of 100% cotton from the United States.
When decorating your space, you don’t have to sacrifice convenience for style. Machine-washable rugs are here to prove just that.
With various materials, patterns and sizes to choose from, you can easily find one that suits your taste, fits your room and is life-proof. Whether you need a rug for a bustling living room or a cozy bedroom, these rugs add a touch of flair and save you the hassle of difficult cleaning.
Image source: Amazon
A great living room decorating tip is selecting a statement piece to decorate around. This can be any piece of furniture, a rug or canvas art that breaks apart the neutrality of other decor pieces while bringing out your unique style.
The VK Living Vintage Rug will not only make your living room vibrant but is sure to withstand the wear and tear of kids, pets and accidental messes. Available in other colors and sizes, this rug perfectly balances durability with style options for your personal taste.
Image source: Amazon
In minimalist design, each element in the space must be meticulously considered for its individual merit and its relation to the whole design. When it comes to breaking up the monotony, geometric patterns are a must to incorporate in the space.
This washable rug from nuLOOM is neutral while visually interesting. No need to worry about pet stains: You can throw this rug into a regular cold wash cycle to return it back to its original, polished state.
Image source: Amazon
Cooking is a labor of love. Some dishes take longer than others and some are messier than others. In these instances, it’s helpful to have a comfy rug to stand on that can handle a few splatters of food.
The solution for your kitchen is LEEVAN’s Washable Kitchen Rugs. Available in five stylish colors, this rug is the perfect partner for your kitchen when it comes to practicality and finesse.
Image source: Amazon
Barbiecore has taken over the design world following the release and reception of the Barbie movie. Incorporating pink into your decor can feel overwhelming since pink is a vibrant statement color. A great place to start is smaller pieces like placemats and art canvases to ease your way into the pink color scheme.
Try the Wonnitar Modern Ombre Small Rug as a bath placemat or small bedside runner. This washable pink accent rug is sure to withstand wear while turning your room or bathroom into a Barbie-themed haven.
Image source: Amazon
Whether you’re channeling your inner coastal grandmother or actually living shoreside, decorating with the beach in mind is enjoyable. In your decor search, it’s important to consider a rug that can withstand the temperament and changes in the weather alongside life’s everyday messes as well.
The Tritard Coastal Sea Turtles Area Rug is sure to keep relaxation at the forefront of your mind with its combination of durability and cuteness. Also available in other beachy patterns and sizes, this stain-resistant rug is perfect indoors or outdoors.
Image source: Amazon
Loving the pets in your life is easy, it’s the clean-up that’s hard. The messes of a pet are unpredictable and it’s important, as a pet owner, to buy pieces that can withstand the wear and tear caused by our beloved animals.
The Ophanie Machine Washable Rug is not only soft and comfy but is machine washable, perfect for unpredictable but inevitable accidents. Additionally, this rug comes in six color options and is slip-resistant, adding to its durability and pet-friendly repertoire.
Image source: Amazon
There are some rooms that don’t have a specific shape or purpose, leaving the window of creativity wide open. A unique room, like a sunroom, sitting room or office even, calls for a unique rug.
This HEBE Boho Round Area Rug is the perfect addition to your undefined room. Whether you’re reading a book or working on a project, this washable rug under your feet is sure to provide comfort and happiness through its distinctive bohemian flair.
Image source: Amazon
The one room that requires the most color and vibrancy is arguably the kiddo’s room. This space should inspire creativity, enhance moods and reflect a child-like fun feel through decor. What makes decorating a kid’s space difficult is making sure the furniture and finishings are stain-resistant or easily washable.
The child-proof Lahome Pink Carpet is perfect for brightening up a room while offering peace of mind. The washable rug is available in other colors and is a parent’s functional favorite.
Image source: Amazon
An often-forgotten decor item is a runner rug. Runner rugs lay in slimmer aisleways and hallways, standing as a focal point where other furniture may not fit. These runners, while slender, tend to be attention-grabbing.
This stunning YOUFORTONG Runner Rug is perfect for your doorway. It’s guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on guests as they enter the home and as they say their goodbyes. While it’s sure to collect quite a bit of tread due to its placement, it’s machine washable and durable.
Image source: Amazon
Spooky season is upon us and for those who love to lean into the festive spirit, themed decorations are an absolute must. Since holidays like Halloween come once a year, it’s important the decorations are washable after sitting in storage until their time to shine rolls around.
This funky Estmy Spider Web Halloween Rug is the perfect festive piece to get into the spooky spirit. Also nonslip, this rug is sure to stay put through Halloween stories and fireside tales.
Image source: Amazon
Maximalism happily lives on the opposite end of the design spectrum from minimalism. In all its colorful and fun-pattered glory, maximalism leans into taking things to the max. Mix-matched patterns and vibrant color schemes fill the rooms of those brave enough to tread into the funky design territory.
Revival Rugs Gambit rug is eclectic and sure to bring spice to any maximalist room. Washable and cushioned means comfort and durability among the carefully curated maximalism madness.
Live smarter, not harder
Washable rugs are a blessing among the chaos that comes with everyday life. Between pet stains, kid wear and accidents, it’s nice to know a quick toss in the wash can return your beloved statement piece back to its original state. Make an investment that’s sure to keep you and your wallet happy.
Wesley is a Charlotte-based writer with a degree in Mass Communication from the University of South Carolina. Her background includes 6 years in non-profit communication and 4 years in editorial writing. She’s passionate about traveling, volunteering, cooking and drinking her morning iced coffee. When she’s not writing, you can find her relaxing with family or exploring Charlotte with her friends.
How would you feel if one spooky night you discovered your new home also housed a family of evil spirits or long dead ghosts?
Even if you don’t believe in haunted houses, there are plenty of people out there who do—or who just want to hedge their bets. But could a history of haunted happenings really hurt the value of your home when it came time to sell?
The numbers don’t lie
Of course, how your property is received all depends on its particular brand of spooky.
A couple of studies in recent years confirm that a reputation for hauntedness has an impact on values. A realtor.com survey found that only about about one-quarter of buyers are open to buying a haunted home, especially if they get a discount, while 38 percent would not consider a haunted home purchase.
Another study by Redfin found that homes located close to cemeteries take longer to sell, but that the wait might just be worth it, since they tend to sell for prices higher than identical homes located in the same city but at a greater distance from a cemetery.
According to a study by two business professors at Wright University, though, houses where murder or suicide have occurred can take 50% longer to sell and at an average of 2.4 percent less than comparable homes.
The rules of buying and selling haunted real estate
Rumors of ghosts raise the question of disclosure.
Most states require sellers to fill out a standard form, revealing what they know about the property’s physical condition. Although the wording may vary state to state, most real estate laws require sellers to disclose “material facts” such as structural concerns, the age of the roof and shingles, leaks in the foundation and walls, existing mold and mildew, and total square footage.
In a 1991 New York case, though, a buyer sued the seller and the seller’s realtor for failure to disclose the house’s ghostly reputation.
Before putting the house up for sale, the seller wrote about her bumps in the night for the local paper and Readers’ Digest, but the buyers were unaware of the home’s reputation. Although the court did not rule nondisclosure of the house’s reputation as fraudulent, it did allow the buyer to back out of his contract and get his down payment back.
So what does this mean for you?
You are not likely to see a “haunted” box ready to be checked off on any state’s disclosure form, but in many areas, sellers are required to obligated to disclose things that affect a house’s marketability. Thus, even if not required by state law, it is a good idea to inform prospective buyers about rumors or reports and what exactly you have observed, without drawing conclusions.
Nothing gets me more excited for spooky season than seeing stylized home decor that complements it. Seriously, all I can picture are the different welcome mats and led lights that’ll let my neighbors know I’m in celebration mode. The best news is I’m moving right before fall, so I get to start the season with a clean slate. Luckily, I don’t have to look far — or go over my shopping budget — for kitschy decorations because IKEA has affordable fall decorfinds that are making my knees buckle. All jokes aside, I’m thrilled to share everything on my wishlist with anyone who’s willing to listen — er, look. Let’s get into these fall decor finds!
LED Pumpkin String Light ($18)
But, there’s always something for those who can’t wait to get the party started. This LED pumpkin string light can be hung indoors or outdoors, making it a fall decor must-have.
LED Pumpkin Pendant Lamp ($12)
If you don’t care for string lights, you’ll love this LED pumpkin pendant lamp. It’s a low-maintenance lamp that’s battery-operated and can be used for your upcoming Halloween party.
White Ghost Cushion ($10)
Another way to start prepping for Halloween is by adding this adorable ghost cushion to your living room sofa. Guests will get a kick out of seeing it perched in the center!
Cushion Cover, Orange ($13)
To complement your new ghost cushions, add a few orange cushion covers for a pop of fall color.
White/Black Ghost Throw ($20)
If having ghost cushion covers isn’t enough, spread the love with this ghost throw. It’s guaranteed to be comfortable so you can snuggle up with during a warm, cozy night.
Throw, Orange ($25)
If the ghost decorations feel like you’re trying too hard, I understand. I’m sure my boyfriend will only let me have one ghostly sofa reference so this throw is a nice medium for anyone who doesn’t really love spooky things.
Pumpkin Doormat ($10)
Usually I love a doormat that has a humorous saying, but this one doesn’t need any introductions. Delivery drivers and guests will crack a smile once they’re greeted by the different pumpkin faces.
‘Boo’ Doormat ($15)
Halloween decor doesn’t have to be outlandish if you don’t want it to. Sometimes all you need is a simple “boo” to greet people with.
‘Mummy’ Lantern For Tealight ($4)
This lantern looks inconspicuous when unlit but casts a ghastly glow when lit. It reveals a mummy’s face so you can easily light this while watching The Mummy franchise.
Artificial Wreath, Indoor/Outdoor ($15)
This wreath isn’t exactly spooky by itself but it can be once you pair it with your other decorations. Think of it as an accent fall decor find.
Place Mat, Gray ($5)
Leaf patterned place mats are the kind of fall decor finds that are as festive as they are functional. They’re sure to be hit during meals!
Dish Towel, Black/Red ($8/2 pack)
Dish towels are the kind of things you don’t know you need until they’re needed. For a low-key festive fall vibe in the kitchen, I highly suggest investing in these affordable dish towels. You get two in a pack so there’s no need to buy multiples…unless you want to!
There are so many good options to choose from, and I just know I’ll come across even more fall decor finds between now and next month. My rule of thumb for those of you with a case of the shoppies? Opt for pieces you know you need, and pick kitschy things I can easily transition from Halloween to Thanksgiving. Happy shopping!
What are you thinking about buying from IKEA’s new fall collections? Let us know in the comments and subscribe to our newsletter for more fall decor.
When you throw a Halloween party (or any party for that matter) in a small apartment, there are a couple of minor challenges. But, where most people see limits, the true party planning expert sees possibilities. Like, Frankenstein-sized possibilities.
Here are some helpful tips on how to throw a Halloween party in an apartment. No doubt you want the guests to get a treat, rather than a rotten egg-like trick.
1. Choose between a chilling or chill theme
There are two main types of Halloween to celebrate, so it’s a good idea to choose your party’s motif before landing the old broomstick on anything else. The first type of Halloween is the kid-friendly sort, filled with décor featuring pumpkins, whimsical fake tombstones and not-so-spooky ghosts.
The other type of Halloween aims to terrify, with realistically gruesome zombies, jump-scares galore and probably more than one Stephen King character on site (Pennywise, we’re looking at you). Whichever route you take, it pays to choose one and see it through. Continuity is key! The cast of “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” doesn’t really belong side by side with “The Walking Dead,” you know?
2. Get some ghoulish guests
To that end, make sure to iron out exactly what sort of audience you want. If families are coming, dial down the scary. But, if it’s adults only, feel free to go all out.
Most apartment-based events are also best kept to a limited number of attendees. Although it might be terrifyingly tempting to invite everyone you ever met, there’s only so much space to go around, which could cause the party to crash and burn prematurely. Shoot for around 30 attendees (not everyone will come, so invite a few more than that).
Also, strongly consider including nearby neighbors on the guest list. Otherwise, you might wind up with a flaming bag of poo on your doorstep. No one likes excessive noise without warning or being left out of the fun, for that matter. At the very least, a heads up on the upcoming event, plus saying “you’re welcome to stop by” goes a long way.
3. Set a not-so-dangerous date
Choose the date and time to suit your guest list, as well. Nothing petrifies parents of toddlers quite like a late evening party because that’s when the real monsters might threaten to come out. So, if kids are coming, opt for earlier in the day, and definitely not on actual Halloween night when they’ll be out trolling for candy. Otherwise, adults tend to prefer spooky soirees in the evening hours.
4. Clear the place out
If you’re tight with the next-door neighbors, ask them if you can store some extraneous furniture in their unit during the party. Or, choose a room that you don’t want people going in anyway (like the bedroom) and relocate some bits and pieces in there temporarily. Most parties need only be standing-room only, with maybe a couch or some chairs pushed up against the wall.
5. Set up a haunted micro-house
Lucky enough to have an extra bedroom or office? Transform that space into a miniature haunted “house” of sorts. It doesn’t have to go too over the top, either. Scary music, strobe light and a friend or two jumping out of the closet in zombie gear go a long way toward adding ambiance to an event.
6. Curate a creepy playlist
Nothing sets the tone for a party like a playlist. There are a ton of seasonal songs out there, but don’t feel like you have to limit the playlist to Halloween-specific tunes. Mix those in with other songs that lend the appropriate vibe, be it creepy, mysterious or scary.
Consider tunes from well-known horror flicks, like the theme from “Psycho,” pretty much anything from “The Shining” soundtrack or even classical music often featured in scary movies, such as Bach’s “Toccata & Fugue in D Minor” (you’ll know it when you hear it). Then, branch out into other pop culture favorites, like songs from the “Stranger Things,” “Us” or “Twilight” soundtracks, or even bands that lend themselves ever so slightly to the dark side, such as Marilyn Manson, Metallica, KISS, Black Sabbath and more.
At any point, you can pop in “A Nightmare on My Street” by DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince for brevity.
7. Decorate safely and sparingly
Nothing says Halloween quite like flickering candles, but for the sake of safety, opt instead for battery-powered candlelight. With a lot of people rubbing elbows in a small space the real deal is far too dangerous.
Also, don’t clutter the space with too many decorations. Focus on high-impact areas, like the front door, the balcony or the previously mentioned haunted house. Otherwise, dim lights, string lights, battery-operated candles and maybe a cobweb or two are plenty. You don’t want anyone tripping over life-sized mummies, or whatever.
8. Choose space-appropriate games
An apartment is not the place to bob for apples. Leave that to the outdoor festivities. Instead, plan some activities to keep guests engaged that aren’t too space-consuming. Halloween costume contests are popular, and really encourage guests to step up their game if you give prizes. A Halloween-themed scavenger hunt, Halloween trivia or even a full-blown murder mystery are all easy to pull off with minimal extra stuff required.
9. Serve foods that won’t scare people away
Throwing a Halloween party in an apartment is not the time to serve sticky ribs or bowls of pumpkin soup, no matter how appropriate they might be for the motif. Such options are simply too messy and uncomfortable to eat standing up. Instead, offer a smattering of finger foods for guests to graze on. That way, utensils and other extra pieces aren’t necessary for people to get their nosh on. This will minimize the upfront cost and the back-end mess, both of which are good things.
Feel free to whip up a themed app or two, like meatballs that look like eyeballs or strawberry ghosts, but don’t feel obligated to get too cutesy. Instead, put a little extra effort into a signature drink or two, like Frankenpunch or Black Magic Jell-O shots. Also, don’t put all of the food and beverages in the exact same spot, unless you enjoy a logjam. Instead, designate a sideboard in the living room for certain apps, a kitchen counter for more and yet another spot for drinks.
10. Make the party literally chilling
A regular party can easily ramp the temperature way up in an apartment, but a party with people wearing costumes, makeup and even masks will really do some damage. Keep your guests from sweating their zombie faces off by cranking up the air conditioning and providing plenty of cold beverages.
Time to eat, drink and be scary
You can have a lot of fun in a small space if you know how to throw a Halloween party in an apartment. So, don’t be a scaredy-cat — start planning a ghostly event today!
A freelance writer based out of the Atlanta area, Alia has penned articles during her decade+ career for such sites as HowStuffWorks, TLC, Animal Planet, Zillow and many more. Her favorite things to write about include fitness, nutrition, travel, healthcare and general lifestyle topics. A graduate of the University of Georgia, Alia’s an avid Dawg, but she also loves reading, sewing, eating all things chocolate and playing sports with her husband, three boys and beloved border collie, Flash.
Halloween is arguably one of the most fun nights of the year. Everyone gets to dress up in popular costumes, stay up late and eat lots of candy. In fact, people in the U.S. spend about $3.1 billion on candy each year. By the end of the night on Oct. 31, kids and parents alike will be knees-deep in Reese’s, Skittles and every other kind of candy favorite.
If you’re the one staying home this year to greet the little munchkins when they knock and say “trick or treat,” consider handing out something besides candy. You can stand out as the memorable neighbor who handed out candy alternatives for Halloween.
The kids will think you’re creative and cool and the parents will love you for not adding to the sugar mounds piling up back home. We’ve got you covered with ideas for more imaginative options than candy.
10 candy alternatives for Halloween
Whether the grocery store was out of candy or you simply wanted to pass out non-candy Halloween goodies, we’ve created a list of different items that are equally as sweet. We’ve got non-candy treats and non-food items for you to consider. No matter what you choose, it’ll be a hit when the kids go home to count their spoils.
1. Caramel apples
The blend of crisp apples and smooth, sweet caramel makes this the perfect fall treat. You can make caramel apples yourself and decorate them to look like different Halloween creatures. You could stick on edible googly eyes or drizzle white frosting around the apple to make it look like a spider’s web. No matter how you dress the apple, handing out caramel apples is a fun and yummy candy alternative for Halloween.
2. Apple cider or hot chocolate
After walking from door to door, kids (and parents alike), need a little pick-me-up. Brew some apple cider or hot chocolate and pass it out in paper Halloween cups or hand-crafted apothecary jars. You could add some dry ice to the cauldron you’re serving from to add an extra spooky touch. Serve up your potion to trick-or-treaters and they’ll be thrilled.
3. Donuts
Go nuts with donuts! Sometimes, people will string donuts in front of their yard or front door and make the children eat it while it’s hanging from a string. This is a fun way to make trick-or-treating even more entertaining! Or you could simply pass out pumpkin-shaped donuts for the kids to have a snack while walking around.
4. Popcorn
Caramel, cheese, butter or plain popcorn are all delicious candy alternatives for Halloween. This treat is easy to make and wrap up in cellophane bags, tie with black and orange ribbon and pass out to the kids who come knocking on your door.
5. Coloring books and crayons
You can find Halloween-themed coloring books at local grocery stores, art stores, office supply stores or even the local dollar store. Get a stack of spooky coloring books and little packets of crayons and pass them out on Halloween. The candy will go quickly but the coloring book activity will last for weeks on end.
Similarly, you could get decorative pencils and erasers to distribute on All Hallows’ Eve, too.
6. Stickers or temporary tattoos
People young and old love seasonal stickers or temporary tattoos as a candy alternative for Halloween. Purchase a booklet of stickers or temporary tattoos that have Halloween creatures on them. Find ones with spiders, witches’ hats, black cats, eyeballs or ghouls. Pass out one or two per kid and they’ll have a blast using them later.
7. Bubbles
Bubbles are universally fun. Go to your local craft or party store and get little containers of bubbles from the party favor aisle. You’ll likely be able to find orange and black bottles to make it more festive. You won’t pop the kids’ bubble by not having candy because they’ll be thrilled for the soapy surprise!
8. Glow sticks
Glow sticks make for a one-of-a-kind treat on Halloween. These sticks filled with colored dye glow in the dark when snapped. Kids can snap the sticks, twist them into different shapes and have fun waving them in the dark. Not only are they fun to play with, but they can help keep kids safe on the dark streets as they are walking to and from houses asking for treats.
9. Play-Doh or slime
Sensory toys like Play-Doh or slime are a hands-on treat that everyone seems to love. You can make your own play-doh or slime using DIY recipes. Or you can purchase little play-doh or slime kits as a candy alternative on Halloween. If you want to go even further with the activity, you could hand out Halloween-shaped cookie cutters for the Play-Doh craft.
10. Halloween trinkets
Now, this candy alternative idea is really full of possibilities. Check out your local party store or Halloween pop-up and get a variety of trinkets like spider rings, squishy eyeballs, Halloween rubber ducks, pumpkin decorating kits, novelty glasses or vampire’s teeth. Put them all in a witch’s hat and have the kids pick one treat (or trick).
It’s fun because everyone will get something different and it’ll be a surprise to see who pulls what from the hat.
Treat your neighbors this Halloween with candy alternatives
As your neighbors walk through the apartment complex trick or treating, you’ll be waiting at your door with some candy alternatives to spook them with. Make this Halloween the most memorable one yet when you step away from candy and step into these creative potions we’ve brewed up for you. We think these 10 non-candy options will have just the right amount of magic needed to charm everyone.
Sage Singleton is a freelance writer with a passion for literature and words. She enjoys writing articles that will inspire, educate and influence readers. She loves that words have the power to create change and make a positive impact in the world. Some of her work has been featured on LendingTree, Venture Beat, Architectural Digest, Porch.com and Homes.com. In her free time, she loves traveling, reading and learning French.
No one said life was fair—which becomes even more poignant when it comes to losing a beloved celebrity. Many of our favorites are remembered not only for their entertainment abilities, but for their big personalities and their heart. From the controversial rapper who changed an entire genre to the movie star with millions of adoring fans, these 15 celebrity deaths shook the world and caused us all to collectively weep in grief. Here is a look back at some of the most impactful recent losses in entertainment that still linger today.
1. Robin Williams
One user posted, “Robin Williams. I loved that man.”
A second user replied, “I’m still pretty torn up about him and Steve Irwin.”
Another commenter added, “Happy to find both of these at the top. Certainly, my choices RIP.”
One Redditor also commented, “I think they were gonna do a movie together, and all the gods were like, nope, the mortals can’t have such entertainment. Seriously, though, a movie with Mr. Williams, Mr. Irwin, and Mr. Farley. Beautiful people, those guys.”
2. Alan Rickman
One Redditor also posted, “Alan Rickman.”
Another commenter replied, “My first movie introduction to him was the Sheriff of Nottingham in Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves, and I still threaten to take someone’s heart out with a spoon. [God] rest his soul…”
One commenter quoted, “’But why a spoon, cousin?’”
Another Redditor replied, “’Because it’s dull. It’ll hurt more, you TW*T.’”
3. Grant Imahara
“Grant Imahara,” one user commented.
Another user responded, “His death was so random and unexpected that I genuinely didn’t believe he died. For a couple days after it happened, I was silently convinced it was an internet prank. Watching the videos of Adam Savage touring his workshop was really hard too.”
One Redditor replied, “Aneurysm is a silent killer, even perfectly healthy people can get it suddenly, sometimes during the night. It’s terrifying. You just go to sleep and never wake up again, because of the faulty vein in your brain.”
4. Steve Irwin
One user commented, “I’m Australian and was in class when I found out that Steve Irwin passed over. It was physically upsetting. I was really distressed all day. I don’t remember feeling that shock since Princess Diana.”
A second user replied, “Steve Irwin is the first celebrity death that I remember happening. Sometimes I wonder what he’d be up to if he was still alive today.”
Another added, “I imagine that, if he had survived the stingray attack, he’d be back swimming with a school of stingrays in the next show. To show that there is nothing to fear and that the stingray that hit him didn’t really mean to do it. Then he would explain how they defend themselves, and he’d also kiss a ray at the very end of the show and call it his ‘little mate’ before releasing it.”
A user also shared, “I remember that Animal Planet had his family and friends over to announce it. It completely destroyed me, it was like my favorite uncle had died. I was so upset that my parents couldn’t get me to school for days. The saddest, most frustrating part of it all is that you know, we all know, anyone that had 15 minutes to hear him talk knows… If he had had a chance to say some last words, they would’ve most likely been, ‘It was my fault, please don’t blame, hate, or hurt the animal.’ He taught me to see beauty in all living things, even creatures our primal instinct rejects. My tribute to him is trying to spread his message that all life is precious and should be respected, admired, and protected, not feared or destroyed.”
5. Anthony Bourdain
One user posted, “Anthony Bourdain. I miss his snarky attitude.”
Another commenter replied, “I think it hit me because, as a pessimistic and generally melancholy sorta person.. I saw within him a kindred spirit with similar tastes and hobbies, etc… Seeing someone who kind of has an idealized version of a life I’d want and that they couldn’t handle and make it out of here so to speak… it kind of dampens the morale a bit when it comes to your own chances of finding peace and happiness.”
“This is a perfect summary if you ask me. His snarky attitude, his love for food and other cultures, and meeting people. And indeed his somewhat melancholic personality… That’s me. That’s about as perfect as a match can be on paper. And I get it. That’s what hit me even harder. Sometimes, I really do get it. And I agree,” added one user.
Another user replied, “It’s hard rewatching all his stuff now. Some of the things that he said really made me sit up and think to myself that we all missed the signs and taught me to listen to people more carefully.”
6. Chester Bennington
One user shared, “Chester Bennington.”
Another user replied, “’When my time comes, forget the wrong that I’ve done, help me leave behind some reasons to be missed.’”
One user commented, “I bawled my eyes out and had to pull over and park my car when “Leave Out All The Rest ” played off my Spotify playlist in 2019. It took on a whole new meaning for 2 reasons:
“I had recently moved to Florida after a really bad divorce, so I lost my entire support base of family and friends from my home state with that move. I’m South Asian, and the stigma of divorce and all of that stupid stuff that our community has, weighed heavily on me because of what my parents were experiencing from people in their lives. The shame was getting to me, I was just driving around waiting for my flight back to my home state. I booked my flight the night before Christmas, because I felt too ashamed to show my face to my family. Somehow I gathered the strength to purchase those tickets and come back to Michigan for a while. This song reminded me of how small this feeling was, that I had nothing to be ashamed of anymore, and that I also needed to leave those parts alone, so to speak.
“It was like a friend of mine gave me a ton of wisdom, love, and support. Then reality sank in, he was gone for good. I took out what I thought were all of the Linkin Park songs from my playlists a few days after he passed because I couldn’t help but feel extremely sad when I would hear them (all the songs are back on my playlists now). But back in 2019, his death was still relatively fresh in my mind, and I thought I took out all of the band’s songs. I missed this one, and I swear, it helped me so much.
“Wherever you are, Chester, I hope you have peace and tranquility. My only regret is not being able to help you, but I will continue to be compassionate and helpful towards others in life the way I have been. Thank you for helping me along with so many others, whether you know it or not man.”
One user also added, “That moment in the memorial concert when they play Numb without the vocals, but have a spotlight on an empty microphone wreathed in flowers kills me every time. That the crowd picked up on it right away and sang the whole song too…”
7. Mr. Rogers
One user posted, “It was pouring rain that morning and I’d stopped to grab breakfast before a looming nightmare commute to work. Right as I was about to pull the key out of the ignition, I heard them say on the radio that he’d passed and just sat there in my car, sobbing.
“I met him in 1983 when he came to my elementary school with the Purple Panda and for a 4 year-old, it was like meeting Jesus. I was so overcome I just blurted out, ‘You’re my best friend!’ and he smiled and said, ‘I’m so glad that we’re friends.’ We didn’t deserve Fred Rogers.”
A second user commented, “My parents were mildly abusive. It was only because of Mr Rogers that I knew something was wrong in my household. The amount of love he shared with people on the other side of the TV was awe inspiring. I think if someone tried to do that today they’d come off as insincere or [trying too] hard.”
Another user shared, “I think he’s the celebrity the world needs most right now. Though I think he’d be so disappointed in all of us to see how we treat each other. I still remember where I was when I heard he’d passed away. My high school band was at Disney World. I can’t remember what park we were at that day but there was a bust there of Mr. Rogers that was already covered in flowers when we got there that morning and people of all ages were stopping there to pay their respects even though it was raining. It just showed how truly beloved he was that so many generations felt like they’d lost a friend when he passed.”
8. Heath Ledger
One Redditor posted, “In 8th grade English class we read Taming of the Shrew and then the teacher let us watch 10 Things I Hate About You to show us how his works still impact writing today. So I had JUST discovered Heath and had a massive crush on him when he passed away less than a year later. It was the first celebrity death that really impacted me.”
Another user also shared, “Still makes me so sad. I thought he was an amazing actor. He just seemed to exude joy.”
“More than exuding joy, he was a remarkable actor. There is a scene in A Knight’s Tale in which he and his cohorts are looking towards the camera as someone is telling them some news. Heath Ledger’s face passes from subtle emotion to emotion. You could read his entire thought process as he absorbed the news. The other actors’ faces were just one look of surprise at the news. I so regret we didn’t get to see Heath Ledger continue to develop because he had a rare gift.” one user replied.
9. Chris Cornell
One Redditor also shared, “Chris Cornell. So talented; gone too soon and died so tragically.”
Another user replied, “I saw him and Chester Bennington in 2007 together. Hell of a show. They’re the reason I never hesitate to say yes to a concert now.”
One commenter added, “Yeah, I’ll forever regret never seeing Linkin park in concert. They were my favorite band as a teenager, and I had one opportunity to see them live when I was in high school and skipped it because I was sure I’d have another chance. Nope. Damn.”
10. Chadwick Boseman
One Redditor shared, “Chadwick Boseman R.I.P. Black Panther.”
Another user commented, “He was such a humble, thoughtful, and selfless dude. I remember watching 21 Bridges and Black Panther and wishing I was as bad-ass and self-less as his characters were. Knowing he was battling cancer while working on several of his movies blew me away, he knew how important Black Panther was to people and continued to train and study every day while battling cancer. Not to mention visiting children battling cancer and hoping to make their day a little happier and a little easier. He continues to motivate me every day to be a more selfless and stronger person and remind me not to waste my life worrying about what others think of us and just doing what you know is right. He’s one of the few people I look up to and strive to be [like. Rest] in peace Chadwick.”
One Redditor added, “A friend of mine went to middle school with him. She had just moved to a new town, after her parents split up, and was having a really rough time; she says that he was one of the only people at that time who was genuinely nice to her. Chadwick Boseman was organically, truly good and that’s a rarity, these days.”
11. Sir Terry Pratchett
One user commented, “Sir Terry Pratchett. He and his works both made the world a better, more interesting place.”
A second user replied, “Terry Pratchett is the reason I evolved from a scared and nerdy introvert kid to the sociable ‘nerd whisperer’. He instilled in me the idea that the filters you use shape your reality, because the actual one is absurd, bizzare, weird, sad and funny, on every scale and step. It is up to us, how we perceive and handle it. Thanks and GNU, Sir Terry Pratchett.”
Another commenter added, “Terry Pratchett is and always will be my favourite author. He could make me laugh and cry in the same sentence. Even now years later when I reread his books I find references or subtleties I missed the last time. He died towards the end of my pregnancy with my youngest. It was a horrible, very traumatic pregnancy and very dark time for me. His death made it worse, especially as his books always brought comfort. It has been several years since then and I still cannot bring myself to read the last book as I am still not ready for it to be over.”
12. Anton Yelchin
“Anton Yelchin,” one user shared.
A second Redditor replied, “Dude had cystic fibrosis. And that isn’t even what killed him.”
Another user added, “He was in my extended friends group…grew up as besties with my buddy’s kid. I used to see him at pool parties and stuff, and he had seen one of my bands, so we would chat about that. Super nice guy with a ton of amazing stories…and then one day, it was just like: ‘Oh my god. Did you hear about Anton???’ Totally f*cked.”
Another user added, “I hope y’all check in on his mom. Last time I was regularly in Hollywood she was still going to his grave for hours every day. Very sad.” Another user added, “He’s my go to for this question. Poor guy had the whole world in front of him. He was in great movies (hell even his voice work in Trollhunters was great) , and the way he went is just so random and awful. Not to say other deaths aren’t tragic, but I think his was more so when compared to the natural death of someone 99 years old, or a drug-related death of someone or someone taking their own life.”
13. Carrie Fisher
One user ended, “We never deserved Carrie Fisher.”
Another Redditor commented, “Followed immediately by Debbie Reynolds 🙁 I felt so bad for Billie Lourd.”
One user replied, “I met her at a Comic-Con right before she died. She was still so beautiful, funny and classy. I was heartbroken when I heard she died.”
14. David Bowie
One user posted, “David Bowie.”
Another replied, “That would be my pick. Knowing he made his last album, released it, and then died 3 days later. It was beyond spooky, but also really cool and creative.”
One Redditor added, “The music videos he created for that album were eerily beautiful.”
Another commented, “My nan bought on the day he died she was on the way back home to listen to it turned on the radio and it announced he had died. She still has the album unopened; she just couldn’t bring herself to do it.”
15. Jim Henson
A user shared, “Jim Henson, too early and such a source of joy to so many.” Another user commented, “Yes. Every time I go to Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World I have to go to the Muppets 3D movie, it was the last thing he did as Kermit. It makes me sad that he died before the paperwork with Disney was complete and because of that a lot of the plans for the muppets at that park never happened. Watch his funeral on PBS, it’s one of the best celebrations of a human’s life you can see.”
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Salem, Massachusetts, a historic coastal city located in Essex County, holds a captivating allure as a hub of rich history, bewitching folklore, and haunting tales. This Redfin article aims to explore and shed light on what Salem is known for, as well as providing helpful information for those considering moving to Salem.
From its storied past as the state’s capital to its thriving arts and cultural scene, we’ll explore what makes Salem a great place to explore and call home. So whether you’re looking at apartments in Salem, MA, are considering buying a house in the city, or you just want to learn more about the area, this article will leave you spellbound with the allure and mystique of Salem. Let’s get started.
1. Salem Witch Trials
One cannot discuss Salem without delving into the notorious Salem Witch Trials of 1692. The trials, fueled by superstition and hysteria, resulted in the wrongful execution of 20 people accused of witchcraft. Today, Salem commemorates this dark period with several museums, such as the Salem Witch Museum and the Witch House, offering insights into the trials and the town’s eerie history.
2. Maritime heritage
Salem’s history as a thriving seaport during the late 17th and early 18th centuries is another significant aspect of its identity. Renowned for its bustling maritime trade, the city flourished, and grand mansions, like the Custom House and the House of the Seven Gables, were built by successful sea captains. Maritime enthusiasts can explore the Salem Maritime National Historic Site, which showcases historic vessels, waterfront architecture, and the Derby Wharf.
3. Halloween and haunted happenings
Salem has embraced its dark reputation and transformed it into a bewitching destination for Halloween enthusiasts. During the month of October, the city hosts “Haunted Happenings“, a month-long celebration featuring parades, haunted houses, ghost tours, and various spooky events that attract visitors from all over the world. Exploring Salem during this time is a unique experience that captures the essence of the city’s mysterious and macabre past.
4. Cultural attractions
Beyond its haunted history, Salem boasts a vibrant cultural scene. The Peabody Essex Museum is a renowned institution housing an extensive collection of art, culture, and historical artifacts. The museum offers a captivating journey through Salem’s global connections and diverse heritage. Additionally, the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, a somber tribute to the victims, invites reflection and remembrance.
5. Architecture and historic districts
Salem’s charm extends to its well-preserved architecture and enchanting historic districts. Walking through the streets, visitors can admire Federal-style homes, Georgian mansions, and quaint Colonial houses. The Chestnut Street District, known as the “Street of the Beautiful Mansions,” showcases exquisite architecture from the 18th and 19th centuries, providing a glimpse into Salem’s opulent past.
6. Witches and magic
Embracing its witchcraft legacy, Salem has become a hub for modern-day witches and practitioners of magic. The city is home to numerous witch-themed shops, where visitors can purchase mystical items, books, and spell supplies. The Salem Witch Trials Memorial Park and the Salem Witch Trials Memorial offer peaceful spaces to honor the victims and contemplate the impact of the trials.