We’ve rounded up the most popular kids’ Halloween costumes of 2023 (for kids of all ages!)

Halloween is right around the corner, and that means it’s time to start thinking about kids’ Halloween costumes! Movies, TV shows, video games, and some tried and true classic Halloween costumes always seem to inspire the year’s most popular costumes. So, of course, we’ve got Barbie, Mario, Stitch, and Thor, along with lots more favorites. We’ve also made sure to divide them up by age and popularity, but there aren’t any rules. After all, it’s Halloween. These are also the costumes that tend to fly off the shelves the fastest, so unless you plan to make your own costumes this year, you’ll want to snag one of them before it’s too late.

New Kids Halloween Costumes for 2023

'Super Mario Bros.' Mario Costume

Mario Bros is a popular kids halloween costume in 2023
HalloweenCostumes.com

With the hit movie making waves this past spring, the '90s kids' fave Super Mario Bros. is more popular than ever. Available in kids sizes 4-12 and includes a jumpsuit, hat, pair of gloves, and, of course, a mustache!

Super Mario Bros. Mario Costume ($39.99-$44.99)—Buy Here!

'Barbie Movie' Cowgirl Costume

Barbie is a popular kids halloween costume in 2023
HalloweenCostumes.com

Hi, Barbie! You had to know the iconic Cowgirl look from the hit Barbie Movie would be here, but we're not at all mad about it. This set comes with a jumpsuit and bandana, but keep an eye out for the matching cowboy hat that's coming soon!

Barbie Movie Cowgirl Costume ($54.99)—Buy Here!

Captain Marvel

HalloweenCostumes.com

Officially licensed and covered with the perfect details, this Captain Marvel costume will make your little one feel like they can take on the world (because of course, they can). It comes in sizes S-XL and includes the jumpsuit, belt, and mask.

Captain Marvel ($39.99-$69.99)—Buy Here!

Inflatable Alien

Amazon

Aliens are sort of having a moment this year, but we're also into one-and-done easy kids' Halloween costumes. It inflates fast and stays that way, so all they have to do is step into it and go!

Inflatable Alien ($32.99)—Buy Here!

The Little Mermaid

The little mermaid is a popular kids Halloween costume in 2023
HalloweenCostumes.com

It's hard to argue with a beautiful costume that only requires a fork as the perfect accessory (though you could totally add this awesome wig or this beautiful 2023 Ariel wig to create the whole mermaid vibe). This costume includes the sparkly dress and is available in sizes XS-XL.

The Little Mermaid ($49.99)—Buy Here!

Glow-in-the-Dark Witch

Pottery Barn Kids

It's the Season of the Witch, and they simply never go out of style. This one from PBK is designed with a cool web pattern on the hat and dress that glows when the lights go out, and 3D spiders crawl up the cape (why doesn't this come in adult sizes, we ask?!). The set includes a dress, cape, and hat and is available in sizes 3T-8Y.

Glow-in-the-Dark Witch ($89.00)—Buy Here!

Ninja Warrior

HalloweenCostumes.com

Kids will always love ninjas and some of them dream of using their skills for good. Keep them agile with this Ninja Warrior costume, and consider using their costume choice as a chance to explain what being a ninja entailed historically. Encouraging research and learning leads to kiddos who are dressing as a historical figure/character versus a culture. How a costume is worn matters, according to Yuko Kaifu, president of Japan House in Los Angeles. This costume comes in sizes XXS-L and includes a jumpsuit, mask, belt, and throwing star.

Ninja Warrior ($24.99-$29.99)—Buy Here!

Pokémon

Pikachu is a popular kids Halloween costume in 2023
Amazon

A cute Pokémon that's also super soft makes this costume a solid choice! Includes a velvet minky jumpsuit with a tail and headpiece.

Pokémon ($26.50)—Buy Here!

Among Us

among us is a popular kids halloween costume in 2023
Walmart

Among Us has been popular for a long time, so it's no surprise it made the list again in 2023. This costume self-inflates fast and allows for vision and free hands, too! Comes in 4 colors/characters.

Among Us ($44.97)—Buy Here!

'A League of Their Own' Dottie

HalloweenCostumes.com

If you have a little slugger on your hands or just a kid who's all about girl power, Dottie Green is an easy pick! It's also a super cute group costume idea. It comes with a dress, hat, belt, and socks in sizes XS-XL.

A League of Their Own Dottie ($39.99)—Buy Here!

Optimus Prime

HalloweenCostumes.com

How epic is this Transformers costume? With a jumpsuit, chest piece, and mask, we think it'll easily win the costume contest. 

Optimus Prime ($49.99)—Buy Here!

Grogu

grogu is a popular kids halloween costume in 2023
HalloweenCostumes.com

The draw of Baby Yoda never gets old, and he gets even more precious when your little one portrays him. This one comes with a robe and headpiece. 

Grogu ($49.99)—Buy Here!

L.O.L. Surprise Diva

Amazon

Their favorite L.O.L. Surprise characters are here just in time for Halloween! They can pick between Diva and Queen Bee. Diva (pictured) comes with a dress, underskirt, belt, headband with bow, wig, and surprise gift!

L.O.L. Surprise Diva ($47.10)—Buy Here!

Most Popular Halloween Costumes for 2T-4T

Gabby's Dollhouse

Amazon

There's a good chance your kiddo will want to wear this, Halloween or not. It comes with a jumpsuit and headband in sizes 2T-4T.

Gabby's Dollhouse ($24.96)—Buy Here!

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is a popular kids Halloween costume in 2023
Spirit Halloween

2023 is seriously the year for blockbuster movies our kiddos can't get enough of, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are back and better than ever. The Donatello costume comes with a jumpsuit, mask, elbow pads, knee pads, shell backpack, and a belt. It comes in sizes XS-L.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles ($39.99-$44.99)—Buy Here!

Paw Patrol

Paw Patrol is a popular kids halloween costume in 2023
HalloweenCostumes.com

What kiddo doesn't want to save the day? Whether they choose Chase or one of the other Paw Patrol pups, they'll be cute and cozy, too! It comes with a jumpsuit (that includes mitts and shoe covers ) and a backpack. Available in sizes 4T-L.

Paw Patrol ($49.99-$59.99)—Buy Here!

Bluey

Bluey is a popular kids Halloween costume in 2023
Spirit Halloween

We love Bluey around here, and we're guessing your little ones do, too. This jumpsuit with an attached tail and headpiece is available in sizes 2T-6T.

Bluey ($39.99)—Buy Here!

Light-Up T-Rex

Pottery Barn Kids

This dino fave comes with battery-operated LED lights in the spikes on the head for a legendary costume. It's available in sizes 2T-6 and comes with a jumpsuit and headpiece (though you can be extra and add this fabulous matching prehistoric treat bag!)

Light-Up T-Rex ($89.00)—Buy Here!

Stitch

Spirit Halloween

Everyone loves Stitch, and this sweet costume is just as plush as the character! We also love that it's a one-piece jumpsuit that just requires a zip-up.

Stitch ($39.99)—Buy Here!

Most Popular Costumes for Ages 4-6

Ms. Marvel

Amazon

There are so many reasons to love Ms. Marvel, and her shape-shifting powers are no match for her foes. The costume includes a  tunic with an attached scarf, pants with boot-tops, and an eye mask.

Ms. Marvel ($45.99)—Buy Here!

Thor: Love and Thunder

Party City

God of Thunder (or maybe your little lightning bolt)? We got you covered with this costume. It includes a full cape, an armor belt, a pair of gauntlets, and a jumpsuit.

Thor: Love and Thunder ($35.00)—Buy Here!

Lightyear

Shop Disney

Your Space Ranger's imagination will soar to "infinity and beyond" in this Buzz Lightyear costume. It features all the intergalactic essentials needed to defeat Emperor Zurg in no time, including light-up wings! Includes bodysuit, wings, gloves, and headwear. 

Lightyear ($44.99)—Buy Now!

Minion

A minion is a popular kids Halloween costume in 2023
Amazon

We're pretty sure Minions will be one of the most popular costumes for kiddos for a long time, and with good reason. This little union suit is great for younger kiddos since it's another one-and-done.

Minion ($19.99)—Buy Here!

'Encanto' Mirabel

Spirit Halloween

If you've been humming 'The Family Madrigal' for months, then Encanto is probably a family favorite. The Mirabel costume includes a beautiful dress and signature glasses.

Encanto Mirabel ($36.99)—Buy Here!

Spider-Gwen

Shop Disney

Too cool for just one name, she is known as Gwen Stacy, Ghost-Spider, and Spider-Gwen. Whichever name your kiddo prefers, this authentic Marvel Spider-Gwen costume will help them launch Halloween into the Spiderverse. This one comes with a hooded bodysuit, mask, and gloves.

Spider-Gwen ($54.99)—Buy Here!

'Black Panther' Shuri

HalloweenCostumes.com

T'Challa may be the Black Panther, but even powerful superhero brothers need their little sisters to help them out of sticky situations every now and then. It comes with a bodysuit, armbands, and gauntlets.

Black Panther Shuri ($39.99)—Buy Here!

Most Popular Costumes for Ages 6-10

Cuphead

HalloweenCostumes.com

1950s-style Cuphead is the silly vintage costume they'll have a blast wearing. It comes with a mask, jumpsuit, and pair of gloves in sizes XS-XL.

Cuphead ($44.99)—Buy Here!

Minecraft Armour

Spirit Halloween

Another year, another popular Minecraft kid's Halloween costume! These blocky looks aren't going anywhere, and we really appreciate the square helmet to give the cubic look they love without a mask (that they might love a little less). It comes with an authentic 3D top, pants, and headpiece in kids sizes S-L.

Minecraft Armour ($44.99)—Buy Here!

Obi-Wan Kenobi

Amazon

What kid wouldn't want to be a Jedi Master? This Obi-Wan costume includes a hooded robe, tunic, pants, belt, and shoe cover!

Obi-Wan Kenobi ($31.99)—Buy Here!

'Hocus Pocus' Sanderson Sisters

Mia Belle Girls

Sisters! Perfect as a group costume or let them pick their favorite from Winifred, Mary, or Sarah Sanderson. Costume includes a sleeveless tutu dress with add-ons available to create the perfect look to put a spell on everyone they meet.

Hocus Pocus Sanderson Sisters ($54.99)—Buy Here!

'Miraculous' Ladybug

Miraculous Ladybug is a popular kids Halloween costume in 2023
Spirit Halloween

The lovely Ladybug from Miraculous is as heroic as she is awesome! This costume comes with a jumpsuit, gloves, eye mask, and iconic blue wig. Since the full-feature movie just dropped on Netflix, we're betting this kids' Halloween costume will be everywhere

Miraculous Ladybug ($49.99)—Buy Here!

'Top Gun'

Amazon

Your little Maverick will be totally ready to take flight in this costume! Add a pair of aviator glasses to the flight suit and let them pick from the included interchangeable patches.

Top Gun ($38.18)—Buy Here!

Most Popular Kids’ Halloween Costumes for Ages 10-13

'Fortnite' Drift Twofer

Spirit Halloween

Let them dance their way into Spooky Season with this Drift Twofer costume, including the signature kitsune mask. Add the included jacket and gloves and they're ready to go.

Fortnite Drift Twofer ($29.99)—Buy Here!

Wednesday Addams Party Costume

Wednesday Addams is a popular kids Halloween costume in 2023
Amazon

They'll be able to dance dance dance from house to house trick-or-treating in style with this ruffly party dress inspired by our favorite braided beauty, Wednesday Addams. This set comes with a dress, belt, socks, and braided wig and is available in sizes 4-13 years. 

Wednesday Addams Party Costume ($39.99)—Buy Here!

'Stranger Things' Robin

HalloweenCostumes.com

Robin totally rocked the Video Stop on Stranger Things and managed to defend Hawkins in her spare time. This kids' Halloween costume comes with a jacket + attached vest and a tie.

Stranger Things Robin ($34.99-$39.99)—Buy Here!

'Spy x Family' Anya Forger

Amazon

If your kiddo is an anime fan, they'll adore this Anya Forger costume! It includes a dress, socks, hair accessories, and a fantastic pink wig.

Spy x Family Anya Forger ($32.99)—Buy Here!

Addison Alien with Light-Up Skirt

Party City

In true Addison style, this costume lights up for a true out-of-this-world style. The set has a printed jumpsuit, light-up skirt, and belt. We love the great wig, too (sold separately here!).

Addison Alien ($45.00)—Buy Here!

Macaroni and Cheese

HalloweenCostumes.com

One of their favorite foods makes for one heck of a cool costume! A hooded shirt with an attached cup also makes this super easy.

Macaroni and Cheese ($49.99)—Buy Here!

LED Stick Figure

Spirit Halloween

These fun stick figure kids' Halloween costumes have become super popular; probably because they look great at night. The costume comes with a jumpsuit, mask, gloves, and battery pack. 

LED Stick Figure ($44.99)—Buy Here!

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All images courtesy of retailers.

Get your supply of white sheets ready, because you’re going to need them for a few of these last-minute Halloween costumes

Feeling frightened that it’s almost trick-or-treating time, and you don’t have your kid’s costume ready yet? Check out these easy last-minute Halloween costumes for kids. Many of them can be made with things you have stashed in your closets and dress-up bin, and take less time to make than it takes to eat a supersized candy apple.

Ghost Costume

This has to be the easiest costume of all time. Buy a new white sheet, cut out the spots for the eyes and mouth, and you’re done!

Gold Medal Last-Minute Halloween Costume

Your kiddo can be an Olympian in less time than it takes to sing the national anthem. Pull out a tracksuit, or a leotard if you’ve got a gymnast at home, then dig out a medal from a fun run or a 5k. Have her throw her arms in the air and give a cheer for this easy DIY Halloween costume!

DIY Strawberry

Strawberry last minute halloween costume
Pretty Life Girls

Five supplies are all you need to make this sweet strawberry from Pretty Life Girls. After a quick trip to the craft store, you can whip up this no-sew costume that is adorable, but more importantly is comfortable for kids and adults, too!

Jane Fonda

Primary

Legwarmers, a pair of leggings, and a onesie are all you need to get your heart rate pumping with this DIY aerobics instructor costume. Bigger kids can swap a swimsuit for a onesie. We love that the key ingredients for this costume can be worn again. If you're itching to do a little crafting, check out Primary's DIY felt boombox to take this costume from low-impact fun to step aerobics queen.

Related: 17 Incredibly Clever Cardboard Box Costumes

Baby Shark

Hellow Wonderful

Cardboard, gray and white paint, and sharp scissors are all you need to make this easy DIY Halloween costume. Bonus: a fierce shark costume comes with a soundtrack that all the trick-or-treaters will be singing, "do do do." Find out how you can make one of your own over at Hello Wonderful. Check out more of our favorite cardboard box costumes here.

 

Last-Minute Mummy Costume

This version might look complicated, but the very easy DIY option requires a white sheet, coffee, white underthings, and not much else! Check out a stress-free tutorial here.

Ballet Dancer

Iiona Virgin via Unsplash

Dig into your kiddo's dance bag, and you'll find the key ingredients for a ballerina costume. Add a fancy updo and voila: you have a future New York City Ballet dancer costume. If you don't have a tutu, check out this easy, no-sew DIY tutu tutorial.

Bubble Gum

Jeff Mindell via Studio DIY

Chew on this cute DIY costume! Gather up balloons, felt, and silver ribbon: that's about all you need to create your own bubblegum costume. While this version features a pink dress, we think a pink t-shirt would work just as well for a kids' Halloween costume. Find the step-by-step instructions at Studio DIY.

Related: Family Halloween Costumes That Are a Freakin’ Delight

Basic Monster

Amber Gutebier

Dig out an old pair of pants and your trusty black Sharpie for this easy DIY Halloween costume. With a snip of scissors and a light coat of green makeup, you'll soon have Frankenstein's monster lurching out your front door. Get the tutorial here.

 

Bath Time

Cheerful and Co Via Primary

Clear and white balloons pop all over a set of white PJs for this easy DIY Halloween costume—it's bubble bath time on the go! Primary has all the instructions so you can make your own, and then take that rubber ducky for a spin around the block.

Emoji

Hello Wonderful

Pick your kiddo's favorite emoji and whip up this cute Halloween costume that's easy to customize. You'll be running after your smiley face trick-or-treating in no time. Hello, Wonderful shows you how you can make your own with not much more than cardboard and paint.

 

Trolls

Doranda Woestman via Watch Out for the Woestmans

Pull out a brightly colored skirt or a tutu and a light t-shirt or leotard, and your little ones will soon be trolls. The awesome hair-dos look impressive—but they're easy to pull off when you follow blogger Doranda's DIY tip. Troll or treat!

Related: Halloween Costumes for Girls Who Aren’t into Princesses

Paper Doll

Slapdash Mom

With not much more than a big piece of poster board, you can create a perfect paper doll costume. We love that this easy DIY Halloween costume costs way less than a pumpkin spice latte while still being extra eye-catching. Follow the step-by-step directions at Slapdash Mom.

Stick Figure

All for the Boys

This clever stick figure costume from All for the Boys is sure to get lots of laughs. We love that it's easy, affordable, and eye-catching. 

Star

Brit Co

Make your star a constellation this Halloween. Brit + Co's adorable, sparkly costume relies on a gold ribbon and glittery duds that your kiddo probably already has in her closet. They recommend using craft foam for the head-topping star—but cardboard plus gold paint will also work in a pinch.

Baby Doll

Hart Sew

This adorable wind-up doll is guaranteed to be one of the sweetest DIY costumes you'll find. Plus it's easy and cheap to make it yourself. Find how you can turn your toddler into a doll at Hart + Sew.

Related: 20 Halloween Costumes for Twins (Older Siblings & Parents, Too!)

Cat

last minute cat halloween costume
Paging Supermom

In less time than it takes to do the Monster Mash, you can make an adorable black cat costume. Paging Supermom calls it her Super Easy Kitty Cat Costume—and we couldn't agree more. It's a sweet option for preschoolers who change their minds about their costumes at the last minute. See our other favorite cat costumes here

Morton Salt Girl

last minute Morton Salt girl Halloween costume
Brit Co

We love this Morton Salt Girl costume because it's cute, clever, and takes almost no time to pull together. An extra bonus—since it relies on regular clothes, there's nothing that'll make sensitive kids uncomfortable while they're on the hunt for candy. But remember, as Brit + Co will tell you, the container of salt is a key accessory.

Jellyfish

A Casarella

This unusual animal costume is simple to make and packs a big punch. Dig out an umbrella and ribbon, then swim over to A Casarella to learn how to make your own easy jellyfish costume. We love her clever tip that'll give this daytime costume a spooky nighttime glow.

Cowboy (or Girl)

Dust off that denim, wrangle up a pair of boots and top it all off with a plaid shirt and a ten-gallon hat. You’ll have everything you need to be a cowgirl or boy costume—minus the horse, of course. If you’ve got a pool noodle left over from summer fun, you can turn it into a horse ready to ride off into the sunset. Yee Haw!

Pirate

Pirate Treasure Hunt
iStock

Shiver me timbers! It's easy to pull together a last-minute pirate costume. Grab a striped shirt and wrap a bandit around your kiddo's head. Pull out a pair of old pants and cut off the hem, using some shark teeth-style zigzags If you'd like a little extra flair, add eyeliner, a pile of necklaces, and make your tiny Blackbeard a cardboard cutlass. Don't forget to check our guide on how to talk like a sailor!

Athlete

RODNAE Productions via Pexels

Calling all sports fans! Dig out your kid's fave jersey—whether it's football, hockey, or basketball—and in no time you'll have a sporty Halloween costume. You can add an accessory like a helmet or a hockey puck, a swipe of festive face paint, and then get out the door. Candy's waiting!

Waddle up to this year’s Halloween party in a bump-worthy getup that’s sure to entertain

If you’re rocking a baby bump this Halloween, there’s nothing wrong with throwing on a shirt that says “Exhausted Pregnant Lady Is My Costume” or buying yourself one of those timeless Preggo sweatshirts. But if you want to get a little more DIY about it, we’ve found lots of bump-worthy options—whether you want your belly on full display or prefer a more subtle look. Keep scrolling for some great (and often hilarious) maternity Halloween costumes that are sure to be a hit this year.

E.T.

The red hoodie looks super comfy, but if you don’t have a bestie who’s a makeup artist you’re probably not attempting this DIY. We’ll still admire it though! The bike handlebars and basket are the icing on this costume.

Kool-Aid Man

This one never gets old, and we’d bet neighborhood parents love the nostalgia hit. The best part? All you need is a Kool-Aid colored t-shirt (red and purple are popular), some face cutouts, and a cardboard brick wall. Oh yeah!

Winnie the Pooh

Head back to the Hundred Acre Wood with this sweet and simple costume. All you need is a cropped red t-shirt over a form-fitting yellow dress. We especially love these beehive buns!

Wilson

You can literally wear any cozy clothes to become Tom Hanks’s beloved soccer ball from Cast Away—you just need someone to draw Wilson on your bump. Finish the look with a straw headpiece. Hope you and baby find a dessert-ed island to hang around on Halloween, yum.

Bun In the Oven

This one requires a little more work but the payoff is laughter all around. Just wear all black and make a simple black oven from your most recent Amazon box. Don’t forget the bun in your oven!

Monsters Inc

Whoever said baby bumps don’t make the perfect monster eyeball was just plain wrong. This family Monsters, Inc. getup is delightful if you’ve got the energy to craft a giant green Mike Wazowski. Beyond that, just throw on your coziest black leggings and long-sleeve shirt. Le blue hard hat optional.

Thing 1 and Thing 2

Make Dr. Seuss proud with this easy-peasy getup for Halloween. Simple black leggings are paired with a red shirt, blue wig, and DIY “Thing 1” and “Thing 2” cutouts.

Disco Ball

Missed your chance to hit the dance floor at Studio 54? No problem! This DIY disco ball pairs a grey gown with a stretchy sequinned silver belly band and a grey wig. Extra points for the silver hanging loop—it’s all about the details!

Basketball

This costume is definitely a slam dunk! Grab your coach and put your best bump forward with some athleisure wear, a few sweatbands, and a basketball drawn on your belly.

Ali Wong

Comedian Ali Wong is known for her sassy standup, especially while preggo. All you need to channel your inner funny girl is a leopard print dress, cat-eye glasses, a microphone, and a top knot.

Prego Tomato Sauce

This is a classic, comfy maternity costume idea. Bonus: If you’ve got a big sibling to join in the fun, let them shine as the little meatball that they are.

Marge Gunderson

Fargo fans, this one’s for you. To get into the spirit of Frances McDormand’s iconic expecting police chief, grab yourself a beige or yellow button-up, a Minnesota-worthy parka, and some kind of trapper hat with a fake police badge. Don’t forget some hot cocoa in a coffee cup!

Gumball Machine

https://www.instagram.com/p/CVt3Jh-LP6g/

Go big with color this year! This easy-to-make gumball costume simply involves gluing copious amounts of pompoms on a white shirt and pairing it with red bottoms. Giant quarter, anyone?

Snowman

Ready for winter? If you can’t wait for chilly days, then embrace some snowman vibes by attaching oversized pom poms to a white shirt and tying off the look with a festive scarf. You’ll get betting tons of warm hugs with this costume.

Mama Rivera (Coco)

Kids still obsessed with Coco? Mama Rivera is a great way to transition from comfy day wear to a night of trick or treating! A flowy skirt, easy sandals and a pretty embroidered top are all you need to embrace with Dios de los Muertos (or Halloween).

Hilarious Halloween parenting memes and all that candy are only two things we love about October

Your kids have chosen their Halloween costumes (and then changed their minds 1,000 times), the candy has been bought and then restocked and then restocked again, and you’ve lined up all the best Halloween movies on Netflix. Now that you’re ready for the big night, it’s time to grab a mini-Snickers, relax, and laugh at these hilarious Halloween memes about parenting we’re sure you can relate to.

No judgment from us.

Must. Practice. Restraint.

One must always cover one’s tracks

Who’s in charge here??

When it comes to holiday decorations, reason goes out the window

I haven’t had my coffee. Don’t mess with me

 

It’s all about what’s available right now

Related: 41 Hilarious Parenting Memes to Get You Through the Day

This is an emergency!

Funny Halloween meme

And they wonder why we don't want to buy a costume in July

Funny Halloween meme
courtesy Sarcastic Mommy

Hey, no taxation without representation!

funny halloween meme
Someecards

And that's why we unfriended them

Someecards

It's just...not...fair!

funny halloween memes

We always tell our kids, "Practice makes perfect" 

funny halloween memes

No, you cannot substitute Bit-O-Honey

funny halloween memes

Wait, does anyone really have a perfect jack-o'-lantern pic?

Funny Halloween meme
Freshly Picked

If this is you, I don't think we can hang out anymore...

Finally, we're on trend!

Someecards

Related: Hilarious Potty Training Memes to Keep You Going when the Going Gets Rough

Guess you didn't get the last text, Fred...

Any red or white will work. Or beer. Just sayin'

Someecards

At least we're being honest with ourselves

Kids! They say the darnedest things!

Someecards

The good news is, Christmas candy!

How we all got here, pretty much

Someecards

And this is how you win parenting, folks

Because reward charts work so well

Someecards

Don't even get us started on Christmas

Just modeling good behavior for our kids

Well, that's just despicable!

It's called "Sugar-Induced Memory Loss," it's a thing!

 

 

 

Wait until you see the “Peter Pan” family costume!

If you start now, it’s easy to coordinate an awesome family Halloween costume that will earn you tons of compliments from fellow trick-or-treaters. From Scooby-Do-themed get-ups to Star Wars family costumes, there are plenty of great ways to dress up your brood this year. For parents who prefer to be a bit more behind-the-scenes, we’ve also got the most popular Halloween costumes for kids in 2022, baby Halloween costumes you can DIY with a onesie, and cardboard box Halloween costumes (because what else were you going to do with those Amazon boxes?)

Click here and save all these family costumes to Pinterest.

Movie Theater Snack Costume

If there’s anything we can agree on, it’s that going to the movies hits differently when snacks are involved. This fun family costume takes everyone’s favorite movie theater snacks to the next level.

Mary Poppins Family Halloween Costume

This fun family costume idea could go so many ways. You could have chimney sweeps, more penguins, the Banks children, and more!

Scooby Do Family Costume

How adorable is this family costume idea? Be sure to save your big Amazon box to make your own Mystery Machine.

Cruella Family Halloween Costume

While we wait for the sequel, how about this fabulous take on one of Disney’s most iconic villains?

Related: 7 Costume Ideas That Are Based on Book Characters 

Hocus Pocus Family Halloween Costume

With the sequel coming out at the end of Sept., we have a feeling there’ll be a lot of Sanderson Sister action this year.

Greek Gods and Goddesses Costume

We are blinded by the fabulousness of this costume idea from Tell Love and Party.

Pot of Gold Costume

Good as gold! We give the green light to the striped stockings and big green hats that make these lucky little ones ready for trick-or-treating. Create a rainbow and add gold coins to a shirt, and you’ve got an adorable leprechaun family Halloween costume idea.

’80s-Themed Costume

When it comes to Halloween when in doubt, go all ’80s.

Star Wars Family Halloween Costume

The trick to this Star Wars-themed family costume is Queen Amidala‘s makeup. The rest is easily found on Amazon, like this Princess Leia, this Luke Skywalker, and this Darth Vader costume.

Related: 17 Incredibly Clever Cardboard Box Costumes 

Harry Potter Family Costume

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ba8OFJTFdvH/?hidecaption=true

If you have a little muggle in the house, then a family Harry Potter costume theme makes for the perfect fit!

Baby Shark Family Halloween Costume

We love DIY costumes and give a wave of approval for this adorable shark family. You and your herd of fish will be sure to see grins on fellow trick-or-treaters.

Big Bad Wolf and the 3 Little Pigs Costume

Are any of you parents of multiples? This fabulous take on the classic children’s story is a genius idea for Halloween.

Where’s Waldo Family Costume

Where's Waldo family Halloween costume
Say Yes

The search is over! We spotted this ultra-coordinated family costume over at Say Yes. It's easy to pull together from items likely already in your closet.

Peter Pan and the Lost Boys Costume

Peter Pan family Halloween costume
A Beautiful Mess

We're clapping our hands for these whimsical costumes featuring Peter Pan and his Lost Boys. Grab a little pixie dust and fly over to A Beautiful Mess for a closer look at the costumes. It's easy to re-create if you just believe! You can even make your pixie dust by clicking here.

Family Weather Costume

Studio DIY

We love the idea of your kid being the rainbow in between the sunshine and rain! Find out how to make your own version over at Studio DIY

Wreck-It-Ralph Family Costume

Wreck-it-Ralph Family halloween costume
See Vanessa Craft

How cute is this Wreck-It-Ralph group costume idea? We love how a lot of these costumes might be laying around your house. Head over to See Vanessa Craft for the tutorials for each costume. 

Labyrinth Family Costume

Brit Co

Fulfill all your Goblin King dreams with this awesome family costume. Sarah, Jareth, and baby Toby complete this perfect trio of a costume. Find out how it's done over at Brit + Co

Monster Family Halloween Costume

Tell Love and Party

Few things say Halloween more than Creatures of the Night. You'll find all the how-tos and close-ups of the spooktacular makeup at Tell Love and Party featuring Frankenstein, his bride, a mini mummy, and a baby bat.

The Sandlot Family Costume

Chris Loves Julia

The family behind Chris Loves Julia took this awesome film-themed photo for the invitation to their annual costume bash. A flashback to a favorite childhood movie, the kids may not be familiar with The Sandlot, but they'll love the fun summery costumes.

 

A League of Their Own Group Costume

A League of Their Own Family Halloween Costume
Pretty Plain Janes

Complete with a ballpark candy vendor, the family behind Pretty Plain Janes hit a home run with this movie-themed group costume.  

 

 

 

 

From a DJ booth for the big kids to butterfly wings for the littles, you can use your old cardboard boxes to create these unique Halloween costumes

It’s that time of year! The weather has that autumn chill, everything is pumpkin-flavored (just look at TJ’s latest pumpkin offerings!), and the kids are buzzing with family costume ideas. Instead of breaking your budget on a store-bought costume, why not reuse those Amazon boxes you have stashed away? They’re called “boxtumes,” and with just a little crafty inspiration and your child’s imagination, you can create any number of cardboard box costumes that will make for a happy Halloween. Looking for some more DIY inspiration? Check out these Halloween crafts for kids, super-cool pumpkin carving stencils (your neighbors will flip!), and haunted Halloween decorations.

Minecraft Creeper Heads Box Costumes

Your little builders will love painting these Minecraft heads for their Halloween costumes this year. What’s especially nice is that you’ll need a reasonably-sized box, not a huge one you’ll have to find.

Rockstar & a Mixed Tape Box Costume

We love this sibling costume idea—a mixed tape and a guitar made out of boxes. Bonus: Your kids can wear comfy clothes for the rest of the costume, which means you’ll win Halloween.

Zoltar

DIY Halloween costume Zoltar
Kate Loweth

Get ready to read some fortunes with this Zoltar costume you can create using a cardboard box. Suspenders help to hold it up and you’ll want to add some accessories like a genie lamp and colorful magic ball to channel the sorcery of it all.

Vending Machine

A girl has used a box to create a vending machine Halloween costume
Christy Palmer via Thrifty and Thriving

This is an easy and great idea for using up all those boxes from Amazon! Just be warned— this cool costume could have other trick-or-treaters trying to get the candy to dispense. A Slinky, paint, and a few other items are all you’ll need to make your version of this tasty get-up. Head over to Thrifty and Thriving to get the entire tutorial.

 

DJ

A boy dressed up like a DJ booth using an old box
Kate Loweth

Snag a shirt from your favorite band, some headphones, and some chains and you'll be on your way to building a fantastic DJ costume. Use your box to make the turntable and grab a record from Goodwill. Super easy! 

Related: 34 Incredible Homemade Halloween Costumes for Kids

A Macaron

A girl is dressed up in a box for Halloween to look like a pink macron
Studio DIY

Oui, oui, your child is a fabulously French macaron. This scrumptious costume looks good enough to eat. Sadly, you can't, but it’s fun to create and your child will get a kick out of being their favorite dessert. Check out the design from Studio DIY.

 

A Kid in a Box

A boy uses an Amazon box to create a Halloween costume
Kate Loweth

This illusion costume is super fun and easy to build. Just use a mask from last year and a hoodie to create the creature who is carrying you. Then you get to be carried in the box. Super fun! 

Paper Doll Costume

We love this creative option that would be super easy to cut out and decorate this Halloween! Find instructions for this box costume here.

X-Ray

A little girl is dressed up for Halloween in an X-Ray box costume
Rachael Burgess

How cute is this little X-ray costume? Not only is the skeleton totally on point for Halloween, but have a sibling or a parent dress up as a doctor, and boom—it's a family costume. Find out how to make one with your Amazon box by heading to Rachael Burgess

A Pair of Dice

Two girls are dressed in matching Halloween costumes made of cardboard that make them look like a pair of die
Mandy Beyeler via Sugar Bee Crafts

Try your luck at making a set of dice this Halloween. Perfect for twins or BFFs, one of the best things about this costume is that it doesn't take a ton of supplies to make. Get the tutorial over at Sugar Bee Crafts

A Daring Dino

A boy is dressed as a dragon for Halloween in a box costume
Liska Meyers via Adventure in a Box

Go Jurassic this Halloween with an adorable dinosaur cardboard box Halloween costume. Your kiddo can fit inside the box, making it easy to wear (in other words, no tight suits or itchy head coverings that your tot will surely refuse to even touch). And bonus, your kiddos can paint their dino any way they want. Get the full instructions from Adventure In a Box.

 

UFO & Alien Cardboard Box Costume

Get yourself some foil and craft a UFO out of those cardboard boxes for an out-of-this-world costume!

Related: 27 Family Halloween Costume Ideas to Copy This Year

An Envelope

A girl is dressed up like a letter using a cardboard box
Studio DIY

Someone has mail. No, not email—a real letter that’s made from paper. Okay, so the letter isn’t exactly all paper and pen marks. It’s cardboard! With a box and some creativity, you can build your child a cute airmail costume. Get the details from Studio DIY.

 

 

Thomas the Train

Your preschooler can’t stop going on and on about his favorite little blue engine. He’s totally into Thomas the Train and is begging (like every 30 seconds) for a costume that features his fave. Well, here’s where this costume from Sugar Bee Crafts comes in. It’s artsy, fun, and something you can DIY at home.

Airplane Box Costume

You’ve seen Disney’s Planes something like a trillion times. And now your child wants to play one of the roles. For Halloween, that is. Don’t worry about finding a ready-made L’il Dipper costume at the mall (or online). Check out this cardboard box version from Desert Chica.

Cardboard Wings

Fairy wings made from a cardboard box are worn by a little girl for Halloween
The Sweetest Occasion

Whether it’s princesses, fairies, or butterflies that interest your child, this cardboard costume is everything. It’s super simple but still artsy enough to get your creative kid into the crafty creation process. Learn how to turn your old boxes into a crown and beautiful butterfly wings over at The Sweetest Occasion.

 

Related: 23 Last-Minute Costumes You Can Totally Pull Off

Fire Truck

A cardboard box is painting red to look like a fire engine and is worn by a little boy for Halloween
Repeat Crafter Me

You don’t have to keep the cardboard for the costume itself. This sweet firefighter outfit is easy to make—you can probably pick plenty of items from the dress-up bin to use. Here’s where the cardboard comes in. Use it to create the cutest fire truck wagon ever! Get the details from Repeat Crafter Me.

 

 

 

This easy DIY monster costume comes together in minutes!

October 31st is coming up fast, and if you want a charming Halloween costume for kids on the quick that you don’t need to worry about getting ruined, then look no further than this DIY Frankenstein costume. If they don’t want to be a monster, check out our other favorite last-minute Halloween costume ideas here.

DIY Frankenstein Costume
Amber Guetebier

Frankenstein Costume Supplies

old pants: anything with blown-out knees, ripped pockets, stains, or just too short, all work

an old shirt, ideally a turtleneck if you want to try to add the bolts. Best in any lighter color, not black or navy blue.

a black Sharpie

Optional: plastic toy bolts; yarn to add stitches

A slightly oversized blazer

For the face paint: green face paint and a black eyeliner

How to Make a Frankenstein Costume

Step 1. Shred It
Just go ahead and cut holes in the pants here and there. If it's cold when you go trick-or-treating, you can always wear an extra layer underneath (green is ideal!).

Step 2. Stitchery
Draw simple stitches on your shirt and a few across the pants. If you want to add some yarn stitches you can do that too.

Step 3. Neck Bolts  

Basic: We used a turtleneck and a pair of plastic kid's bolts from a construction game. You essentially just cut small holes, slide the bolts in (backward), and put the nuts on to hold them in place. You could spray paint them silver if you want (we left ours black). The fabric of the turtleneck kept them from poking the neck or making it uncomfortable.

More advanced: You can also try making bolts using a headband to slide around the neck (this works well for older kids but little ones will probably lose track of this). We love this tutorial which is a little more involved but a bit comfier/less bulky.

Step 4. Face Paint

No need to go overboard with the green paint: you can make it a faint green that's relatively easy to wipe back off. Take black eyeliner and make stitch marks. Avoid putting marks over the eye or too near it as it makes it harder to wipe off later.

Don a blazer for the oh-so-Karloff look. Snowboots look great as clunky shoes, but sneakers will do the trick for your active tots.

Tip: This basic costume can be altered to become a zombie!

 

Apple TV is offering free viewings, no subscription required

Last year, Apple TV+ threw the world a hail Mary when it allowed It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown to be broadcast on PBS in October. This year, the streamer is going a different way to show the special, and it will still be free for non-subscribers!

Back in 2020, Apple bought all the rights to the Peanuts specials, which means that the only place you can catch the beloved classics is on Apple TV+. That is still the case today.

Existing subscribers will happily put It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown and the other holiday special on repeat, but what if you don’t want to pay for another subscription just to get your dose of nostalgia? There are several ways you can watch––for free.

Related: The ‘Secret’ Netflix Codes for All the Family Halloween Movies

Apple TV

First, if you’ve never subscribed before you can head over to Apple TV and sign up for a free 7-day trial. There’s no need to wait until Oct. 31 either––It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown is already available for viewing.

You can also watch A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving and A Charlie Brown Christmas while you’re enjoying your trial! You will need to enter credit card info however, so set a reminder to cancel after seven days if you don’t want to pay $4.99 a month.

New this year, Apple TV is providing special free windows for non-subscribers to stream! From Oct. 28-31, you can watch It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown without having to sign up for a subscription.

Free windows will also exist for A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving from Nov. 23-27 and A Charlie Brown Christmas from Dec 22-25.

Related: Boo! Freeform’s ’31 Nights of Halloween’ Schedule Is Hauntingly Good

Courtesy of ABC Television Network

Another way to snag Apple TV+ for free is to take advantage of Best Buy’s three-month offer. Head to bestbuy.com, add the offer to your cart, check out and enjoy 90 days for free!

If you don’t mind shelling out a little dough so you can watch the movie whenever you darn well please, both a DVD and 4K disc version is available on Amazon for just $14.

Looking for some spooky family time this Halloween season? Check out these hauntingly-good Dallas Halloween events

It’s time to get the kids into their Halloween costumes and head out on the town because this month is full of Halloween events for kids all over Dallas. We found Halloween craft opportunities, pumpkin carving festivals and even train rides with a Halloween theme. Get ready for the sugar rush as you explore the best Halloween events for kids in and near Dallas.

 

there are halloween songs about jack o lanterns
istock

Meadows Museum Trick-or-Treat
Bring the kids in costume to a trick-or-treat event that allows your kids to explore the museum! There is a treat waiting for everyone at the end. Oct. 23. Event details

Dallas Symphony Orchestra Performing "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets"
Bring the family to a performance of the "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" movie score, by the amazing John Williams, while the movie plays on the big screen. Oct. 28-30. Event details

Scare on the Square
Don't miss this super fun trunk-or-treat event! Your kiddos will have a blast and have tons of Halloween fun. Oct. 39. Event details

Boo on Ballard
Join the community of downtown Wylie, TX in a safe trick-or-treating event your kid will love. Kids can trick-or-treat through the downtown and also enjoy the live music and carnival games. Oct. 27. Event details.

Related: 12 Awesome Dallas-Inspired Halloween Costumes

Howl-O-Ween at Great Wolf Lodge
Adults and children alike will howl, hop and hustle around Great Wolf Lodge as the Grand Lobby transforms into a spooktacular extravaganza complete with pumpkins and festive decorations. During Howl-O-Ween, guests can partake in complimentary programs including Twisted & Tangled, where children follow the spinner and try to stay on their feet to get a treat and be declared the winner. Daily through Oct. 31. Event details

Screamin Green Hauntoween
Monster-ific crafts and special spooky happenings all month long include a themed scavenger hunt that’s fun for the whole family! Plus you'll enjoy trick-or-treating every weekend, all while exploring 26 exciting hands-on attractions. Daily through Oct. 31. Event details

Autumn at the Arboretum
Autumn at the Arboretum features breathtaking colors of fall including 150,000 autumn flowers accented by pumpkins, gourds and squash. The festival features the return of Mommy and Me Mondays and Tiny Tot Tuesdays, a hay bale maze, a pumpkin patch with pumpkins for purchase, music and more. Daily through Oct. 31. Event details

Brick or Treat Monster Party
Bring your little monsters to LEGOLAND® Discovery Center and get into the Halloween spirit with Brick-Or-Treat. Don your favorite costume and get ready for some spooky fun with family-friendly activities and costume contests. Daily through Oct. 31. Event details

Related: The Great Pumpkin: 11 Dallas Pumpkin Patches We Love

Kids Boo Fest at Six Flags Over Texas
Ride some family-friendly rides, Follow the trick-or-treat trail, and enjoy fall festivities like a corn maze and pumpkin painting. This event wouldn't be complete without fall favorite activities like spooky photo opportunities and plenty of frighteningly delicious treats! Select days Sept. 24-Oct. 30. Event details

Spooky Science Night at the Exploratorium
Join the Explorium for a Spooky Science Night filled with Tricks and Treats. There will be candy, slime and pumpkin catapults. Be sure to dress up in your costume! Oct. 22. Event details

Boo at the Fort Worth Zoo
Enjoy the amazing animal exhibits while enjoying music, costumed characters, entertainment, and treats along the way! Oct. 29-31. Event details

Trick 'r Treat Trains
Join the Grapevine Vintage Railroad for the Trick 'r Treat Train! Practice your trick-or-treat skills while in costume and enjoy our treats. Oct. 29. Event details

These local costume shops are perfect for outfitting your little ones this Halloween—and beyond

It’s time for your family to begin pondering one of life’s big questions: what should we be for Halloween?! And, these days, it’s not enough to come up with a one-night-only disguise for Halloween trick-or-treating. All October, dozens of family-friendly Halloween events promise to get kids into the spooky spirit, with costumes highly encouraged. Thankfully, we have you covered with some of our favorite local storefronts and pop-up places to shop for costumes, accessories, and festive décor. Whatever your family needs to complete their costumes, keep the Halloween spirit alive with the help of these shops—many of which are open year-round and can help you with many a theme-party looks!—in both the city and the ‘burbs.

For a Vintage Vibe: Lost Eras
The cool speakeasy of costume shops, Lost Eras is a hidden gem with a throwback twist. It houses a showroom full of vintage and antique collectibles, and is known for renting props and costumes to theater and movie sets (Ferris Bueller’s Day OffThe Untouchables, and Public Enemies—yep, Robert De Niro wore their clothes!). At Halloween, they add to their stock and go gangbusters. If you’re looking for funky décorHalloween or otherwiseLost Eras has a lot to choose from.

1511 W. Howard St.
Rogers Park
Online: losteras.com

Related: Our Ultimate Guide to Chicago-Area Pumpkin Patches

For Treasure Hunting: Chicago Costume Company
Don't let its small facade deceive you: Chicago Costume is crammed to the rafters with costumes, makeup, accessories and anything else you need to transform your look. Kiddies will go bananas for the selection of Disney, Star Wars, superhero, and comic book-themed costumes. This is one of just a handful of year-round costume shops so don’t panic when your little superhero needs a new costume in January. Too busy to shop in the store? Purchase online and have your costume shipped to you or pick it up for free at one of their two Chicago locations.

1120 W. Fullerton
Lincoln Park

4727 W. Montrose St.
Portage Park

Online: chicagocostume.com

For a Spooky Setting: Halloween Hallway
Known for its robust selection of adult costumes since it was founded in 2007, Halloween Hallway also caters to kids with four Chicago locations (River North, Wicker Park, Downtown, Lincoln Park) that are open during Halloween season only. We love the overabundance of accessories. They take decorating seriously and some of the décor (zombies, vampires and other things that go bump in the night) might be a little scary for little ones—yet super-duper cool for big kids!

Multiple locations
Online: 
halloweenhallway.com

Related: Field Day! Local Chicago Corn Mazes to Get Lost In

For the Procrastinator or Late-Night Shopper: Fantasy Costumes
This year-round costume headquarters is a Chicago classic and known for helpful service. So helpful, in fact, that for the last few days before Halloween, they stay open 24 hours a day to satisfy all those last-minute, eleventh-hour switcheroos that parents love so much. Kids will love the Fortnite costume selection—and with so many adult costumes, your whole family can dress up together! Fantasy Costumes goes above and beyond in the accessories department, so expect to find an enormous selection of makeup, wigs, masquerade masks, and other do-dads to complete the transformation.

4065 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Portage Park
Online: fantasycostumes.com

 

For Kids, Pumpkins & Pets: Spirit Halloween
North, south, east, west—no matter where you turn, Spirit is like your friendly-ghost neighbor. With costumes for everyone (including pets!), a dedicated pumpkin carving area, and a "glow" section of accessories that will last well beyond Halloween, you'll find everything you need here. Because many locations are seasonal brick-and-mortar stores, open only during the holiday time, check their site for up-to-date locations. 

Multiple locations
Online: spirithalloween.com