If you are the Halloween party hosts this year, don’t fret. We have some simple ideas that will help you pull off a pre-trick or treat bash without turning into a monster.
Start Early
Begin planning your Halloween party several weeks in advance (and send out e-invites at least two weeks beforehand). Consider carving pumpkins (using patterns) for decorations. Make it a pre-trick or treating party—and stick to just an hour. Once you’ve made the guest list, plan activities according to age. (For instance, keep the decorations and activities not-too-scary for a preschool party.)
Plan Some Ghoulish Games
Keep the party games fairly simple—and play outside. Line kids up for a mini pumpkin on a spoon race or bury small toys for a find the favor in the haystack game. A simple costume parade around the yard also makes a great photo opp. Check out our collection of fun kids cooking games!
Cook up Creepy Cuisine
Kids will fill up on candy when they trick or treat, so start with some ghoulish but also good for you foods. Serve up Spaghetti and Eyeballs or the Scary-oli from the Kidstir Halloween kit. You can also set out a buffet of healthy finger foods—carrot coins, sunflower seeds, cheese cubes, and dried fruits and nuts. Give the snacks fun names with our Tabletop Tags.
Haunt your house
Put up cob webs in the doorways, hang Halloween lights, top pumpkins with party hats, and set out a few homemade Kitchen Witches, too. Play some spooky music and your house will feel haunted.
Go with the (freaky!) flow
Once the guests arrive, let the spooky fun begin. Take time to listen to the kids talk about their costumes. Then play a few games, enjoy the creepy cuisine, and take some photos. Send the kids off on their trick or treating adventure.