Fun Shapes & DesignsNo. 7362 · The 2026 edition
12 Fun Ways to Celebrate Halloween
Our own summary of the original — the full post and photos live at bhg.com.
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About this
This BHG roundup gathers 12 fun ways to celebrate Halloween, spanning pumpkin-carving trends and timing advice, trick-or-treat etiquette, vintage decorating ideas, tablescape centerpieces, theme-party inspiration, and sweet treats. Each entry links out to a full guide, and the page frames Halloween as fun for the whole family whether your style leans scary or sweet. It's a hub of expert-predicted trends and classic traditions to help readers celebrate in style.
The plan
- Decide whether your Halloween style leans scary or sweet before planning.
- Pick a Halloween celebration theme suited to your group.
- Know the best day to carve pumpkins for your specific climate so they don't rot before Halloween night.
- Follow general trick-or-treat etiquette whether chaperoning, handing out candy, or leaving for a party.
Decoration ideas
- Style secondhand, thrifted, or handed-down vintage Halloween decor for a nostalgic holiday look.
- Create a simple DIY centerpiece for your table that lasts all season.
- Arrange festive florals as a Halloween centerpiece.
- Go Halloween glam with black candles and gold votives spanning a tablescape edge to edge.
- Customize carved pumpkins with highly personalized designs for the front porch.
- Use non-traditional color schemes or seasonally subtle decorations for a themed look.
- Theme rooms with kid-friendly ghosts, sophisticated gothic touches, or cozy backyard bonfire setups.
Food & drink
- Fall treats and seasonal recipes.
- Halloween charcuterie boards.
- Cute Halloween cupcakes with spooky decorations.
- Bowl of candy for trick-or-treaters.
Activities
- Host a pumpkin-carving party.
- Carve pumpkins as a family, following the best-day-to-carve guidance.
- Make your own costumes and crafts.
- Go trick-or-treating or escort little trick-or-treaters.
- Host a Halloween party with seasonal party games.
