With spooky season creeping closer, it’s about time you got some Halloween plans in the diary, don’t you think? Whether you’re all about jump scares or just here for the sweet treats, we’ve got you covered with our pick of fun Halloween activities, to help you make the most of the spookiest night of the year!
Before we jump in though, here’s a peek at our fantastic collection of Halloween cards. Featuring all the bats, black cats, and haunted houses you’d expect, our independent illustrators have absolutely nailed it:
And if you’re stuck on what to jot down inside, use these happy Halloween messages for inspiration!
1. Throw a Halloween party
Starting off strong, we have the idea of spookifying your home, making a killer playlist, and inviting friends over for a classic Halloween party (creepy costumes strongly encouraged). From murder mystery themes to classic horror vibes, there’s no shortage of ways to set the scene. Think eerie lighting, plenty of cobwebs, and themed cocktails like Bloody Marys and Halloween punch. Just check out our Halloween party ideas for adults if you’re looking for more inspo.
2. Have a spooky movie marathon
Not in the mood to venture far from home? A good old-fashioned movie night is one of the best indoor Halloween activities out there. From nostalgic classics like Hocus Pocus to full-blown frights like The Conjuring, there’s a film for every scare level. Dim the lights, light some candles, and don’t forget the themed snacks for the ultimate eerie night in.
3. Visit a pumpkin patch
It’s never too late to pick out the perfect pumpkin, so why not head to a pumpkin patch for a cute autumnal day out? Think tractor rides, scare mazes, and plenty of photo opportunities as you make your way around.
When you get home, it’s carving time! Don’t worry, our guide on how to carve a pumpkin like a pro is filled with everything you’ll need.
4. Book a ghost tour
Ready to get spooked? Book yourself onto a ghost tour in one of the UK’s famously haunted cities. Whether you join a ghostly London pub crawl, or wander the streets of York after dark, this is the perfect way to embrace the eeriness of the season. Just make sure to bring a friend along so you’ve got someone’s hand to squeeze.
5. Create some creepy crafts
Looking for fun Halloween activities to keep little ones entertained? Set up a Halloween craft station stocked with all the essentials: googly eyes, glitter glue, paints, and more! You could make paper plate pumpkins, toilet roll mummies, or DIY trick-or-treat bags (the options are pretty much endless). Or if you’re looking for an alternative to messy pumpkin carving, try painting your pumpkins instead!
6. Make Halloween sweet treats
Whether you whip up a batch of ghost-shaped cookies or pumpkin spiced cupcakes, baking sweet treats is a great way to get in the Halloween spirit. You could invite friends over for a spooky bake off, or if you’re looking for more Halloween ideas for kids, get the little ones involved too. Once your treats are ready, wrap them up in Halloween-themed bags and hand them out to trick-or-treaters (or just scoff them all yourself).
7. Host a haunted feast
When it comes to Halloween activities for adults, hosting a spooky dinner is the perfect way to celebrate. Create a creepy menu (we’re thinking pumpkin soup, ‘severed finger’ hot dogs, and ghost meringues for dessert), then lay the table with all the Halloween décor you can find. Go all out with an on-theme playlist then hang some cobwebs for the ultimate spook-tacular soirée.
8. Curl up with a creepy book
Wondering what to do on Halloween if you’re spending it solo? You could light some candles, grab a bunch of your favourite snacks, then curl up with a scary read. From gothic classics like Frankenstein to twisted folklore and modern thrillers, there’s plenty to keep you up all night. Or if you’ve got company, tell some spooky stories by torchlight instead!
9. Welcome guests for a games night
A games night is a great way to keep everyone entertained. All you’ll need to do is gather your guests and get competitive with some Halloween-themed fun! We’re thinking ghostly charades, horror movie trivia, and pin the spider on the web, or how about a pumpkin ring toss? Throw in themed food and pop on some spooky songs and you’ve got yourself a frightfully fun night.
10. Reverse trick-or-treating
Got a Halloween-obsessed friend? You could put together a little Halloween basket filled with all things spooky and drop it off at their door (like trick-or-treating in reverse). Add sweet treats, mini pumpkins, and some cosy autumnal bits like socks and scented candles. Oh, and don’t forget to add a thoughtful note too, perhaps something along the lines of: ‘Hope your Halloween is filled with more treats than tricks!’.
And there you have it, a whole host of fun and spooky things to do on Halloween! Whether you’re into cosy days at the pumpkin patch or prefer the frights of a ghost tour, there are lots of ways to make this October 31st one to remember.
Looking for more inspiration? You’ll find plenty over on the thortful blog, including family Halloween costume ideas and group Halloween costume ideas that’ll help you win the award for best dressed. You can check out more of our what to write guides too, including Halloween quotes to get you in the spirit.
