This is a guest post
The most magically spooky yet cosy time of year is finally here, and I couldn’t be happier.
Due to the current cost of living crisis we are all being a bit more mindful with our spending habits, and cutting down where we can. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t embrace the season, as there are plenty of low spend activities you can enjoy during October for a budget friendly Halloween!
If you are looking to celebrate this enchanting time of year on a budget, I have you covered.
Admire the Decor
Crisp, brisk air, but not too cold. October is one of the best times of the year to go for long walks, taking in the warm colours and general ambience.
Take a walk around your neighbourhood looking out for spooky pumpkin garlands, and hand carved pumpkins balanced on doorsteps.
If you live near London, take a wander to some of the best seasonal displays; Covent Garden, Kings Road and houses around Notting Hill are some of the best spots to see the most creative displays, as well as the windows in the largest department stores.
Alternatively, head to your local park to wade through the crunchy leaves, and appreciate the change in seasons. It’s such a pretty time of year!
This is a true Halloween on a budget activity as it can be done without spending any money.
Host a Movie Night
Halloween is the best time to host movie nights.
Stock up on your favourite snacks of choice, snuggle up with a blanket and switch on your fairy lights for ultimate hygge vibes.
The Harry Potter movies are a must watch during Autumn, with their moody, dark academia vibes. If you are a scary movie fan, pick your favourite thriller or classic horror.
For a family friendly option, try the latest Haunted Mansion movie, or an animated film like Frankenweenie. Halloween movies don’t need to be gory; they can be cute and wholesome too!
If you decide you do want to head to the flicks for the full cinematic experience, make sure you check the latest offers to get the cheapest cinema tickets.
Make your own Cosy Drink Station
‘Tis the season for PSL’s!
If you are a coffee lover, how about setting up your very own hot drink station?
Browse TK Maxx’s extensive selection of unusual coffee syrups, and dust off your favourite Halloween and autumnal themed mugs.
As well as being lots of fun for your whole family to enjoy, a cosy drink station could end up saving you money too. Starbucks Pumpkin Spiced Latte’s start from £4.20 RRP, so save your pennies by purchasing a bottle of syrup and making your own instead.
Your cosy drink station will be a daily staple throughout October and right through the winter season, into the new year making this budget friendly Halloween activity truly last.
Easy Nail Art
If you are looking for some me time, how about spending an hour treating yourself to a new Halloween themed manicure?
Opt for autumnal colours, or you could try some beginners’ nail art.
Easy nail art ideas include black and white stripes, matte nails or shimmery glitter in your favourite spooky shade.
For those with a steady hand, try cobwebs, a pumpkin design or even a spooky eyeball design if you’re brave! Check YouTube and TikTok for easy nail art inspo.
As well as being a fun self care activity, it’s a great one to enjoy with friends too; gather your pals and take turns painting each other’s nails whilst listening to a podcast for a fun budget friendly Halloween idea.
Creepy Cocktail Evening
If you like to celebrate the season with pals but prefer a night in over a night out, how about hosting a cocktail evening?
Ask your friends to each prepare a spooky themed cocktail to bring along, that they keep a surprise until the day. They can be as creative as they want!
You could make a witches brew complete with sugar rimmed glasses, or perhaps you’d prefer a blood red Halloween punch? It’s entirely up to you.
Ask your friends to judge each cocktail based on taste and presentation. A little healthy competition can be fun, and will up the stakes!
Best of all, you get to enjoy an evening of cocktails for the price of preparing just one round. Ideal for Halloween on a budget!
Easy DIY Decorations
Some of the most effective Halloween decorations happen to also be the easiest to make!
Try making a garland of paper ghosties to drape across your mantelpiece, or perhaps create a feature wall by cutting out black bats from shimmery black card.
If you have kids, you could try spooky themed paper chains or a pumpkin paper strip lantern.
Paper crafts can provide hours of entertainment, and they are a cheap activity, with minimal cost required.
As well as trying your hand at paper based decor, you could make simple DIY stuffed fabric pumpkins using scraps of material. If you prefer more natural decor, have a go at decorating real pumpkins with flowers, feathers or paint to make a striking centrepiece.
These ideas show that a budget friendly Halloween doesn’t have to be boring!
About the Author
Taryn is a money and lifestyle blogger at ‘Saving in London City’ who is on a mission to share the best money saving tips and tricks. Taryn discusses the best ways to explore the capital on a budget, whilst saving towards her long term money goals, which include saving for a house deposit, travelling the world and investing.
I appreciate the budget-friendly Halloween ideas shared in this post! It’s great to see that we can celebrate the spooky season without breaking the bank. I especially liked the suggestions for gifts under $100, which can be a fantastic way to surprise loved ones without straining the budget. Thanks for the creative and affordable Halloween inspiration!