About 170 million people plan to celebrate Halloween this
year, according to a survey by the National Retail Federation.
Seven in 10 Americans will get into the haunting Halloween
mood, up from 69 percent last year, and the most in federation’s 10-year survey
history.
Consumers also are expected to spend more, too. The average
person will spend $80 on decorations, costumes, and candy, up from $72 last
year. Total Halloween spending is expected to reach $8.0 billion.
More than one-third of consumers will look for new ideas in a store and nearly
one-quarter will consult with friends and family.
Other inspirations: 15 percent will check Facebook for
inspiration, 7 percent will review Pinterest photos, and 33 percent will search
online.
Of those buying or making costumes, the average person will
spend $28 this year, up slightly $26 in 2011.
Of the people celebrating Halloween this year, more than
half will decorate their home or yard, up from 49 percent last year, and 45
percent plan to dress in costume, also up from last year’s 44 percent. More
than one-third will throw or attend a party and 33 percent will take children
trick-or-treating. In addition, 15 percent will dress up their pet.
Despite record spending figures for this year’s Halloween holiday, one-fourth
of U.S. consumers say the economy will impact their Halloween plans. Most say
they’ll spend less overall, 84 percent, while others will make a costume
instead of buying one, 18 percent, and more than one-third will buy less candy.
