Halloween falls on a Saturday
Halloween 2026 is Saturday, October 31. A weekend Halloween usually means more trick-or-treaters, longer parties and earlier trick-or-treating hours, so plan for higher demand than in a weekday year.
How much candy do you need?
A practical estimate is the number of expected trick-or-treaters multiplied by two or three pieces each. If your street saw 60 children last year, a Saturday may bring 20 to 30% more. Use our percentage calculator to add that increase: 60 + 25% = 75 children, times 3 pieces = about 225 pieces. Most large bags list the piece count on the label, so you can work out how many bags to buy.
Party budget per guest
List fixed costs (decorations, music, venue) and per-guest costs (food, drinks, favors). Divide the fixed costs by the guest count and add the per-guest cost to see what each person really costs you. For example, $90 of decorations plus $8 of food per guest for 15 guests is $90 ÷ 15 + $8 = $14 per guest.
Costume savings
Store-bought costumes can cost $40 to $80. A homemade costume built from clothes you already own plus a few accessories often comes in under $15. Buying decorations and costumes on November 1, when stores discount leftovers by 50% or more, is a classic way to cut next year's cost.
Safety basics
Use reflective tape or flashlights for children, check wrapped candy before eating, keep pathways clear of cords and use LED candles instead of real flames in pumpkins. If you host, offer allergy-friendly treats and label foods that contain nuts.
Pumpkin carving math
A medium pumpkin of 8 to 12 pounds is easiest for carving. If you want to convert weights for an online recipe, try our kg to lbs converter; pumpkin puree recipes often specify grams.
After the party
Freeze leftover chocolate for baking, donate unopened candy and store decorations in labeled boxes. Writing down how many visitors you had makes next year's candy estimate far more accurate.
Frequently asked questions
What day is Halloween 2026?
Saturday, October 31, 2026.
How much candy should I buy for trick-or-treaters?
About two to three pieces per expected child, plus 20–30% extra on a weekend Halloween.
How do I calculate party cost per guest?
Divide fixed costs by the number of guests and add the per-guest food and drink cost.
When are Halloween items cheapest?
Usually on November 1, when stores discount leftovers heavily.