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5 Ways to Make Halloween More Fun

By Karen E October 24, 2013

Halloween seems to kickstart the "holiday season." Once the 31st is here, fall seems to move really fast and before you know it, Thanksgiving is here and Christmas/Hannukah are just around the corner. How can you slow things down a little now so you and your family can just enjoy the time? A few tips:

1. Consider attending a Halloween event (or two) that don't fall on the day itself. One of the stressors of Halloween is spending $$$ on a costume that only gets worn once. Head out to one of the many "spooktacular" celebrations in the area and get more mileage out of those costumes; our calendar has lots of options to choosse from.

2. One way to save $$$ on those costumes? Shop resale! Search our calendar for an upcoming mom-to-mom sale, hit the Facebook groups, or visit the nearest thrift store. Gently used resale items can be a fraction of the cost of new costumes.

3. Give some thought to creative ways to handle the influx of Halloween candy. Sometimes the sheer amount of sugar can cause household stress, as can the ensuing evenings of fights over when/how much candy is allowed. Check to see if your dentist does a candy buy-back program, use the candy for some educational activities like Halloween Candy Math or Candy Science, play Switch Witch or let your kids set up the most elaborate candy swap rules they can think of (but make sure it all goes in writing!)

4. Start a new tradition! When my kiddos were toddlers, we created a tradition of decorating "boo bags" that we distribute to neighbors. I've seen a "booze bag" version that my friends have done, as well, if you want to curry favor with your local grownups. There are tons of ideas on Pinterest!

5. Get out and do something different. If you're feeling overwhelmed by the sugar and costume side of Halloween, take a hike -- literally! Check out the fall colors blooming in the woods around us.

What are some ways your family is making sure Halloween is fun this year?