As Halloween approaches, many parents start to feel the pressure of costume shopping, school events, and celebrations. With the rising cost of living, these small extras can quickly add up.

We understand how stressful it can feel to keep up with seasonal traditions while staying on budget. That’s why we’ve put together some fun, affordable ways to make Halloween special this year.

Costume ideas on a budget

Costumes don’t need to be expensive to be creative. With a little imagination, you can make something your child will love while keeping costs low.

• Visit charity shops or swap shops. You’ll often find costumes, hats, and props for just a few pounds.
• Check Vinted, Facebook Marketplace, or local community groups for pre-loved costumes.
• Ask friends, family, or fellow parents at school if they’d like to do a costume swap.
• Reach out to your local library or council, as they sometimes host free swap events or have donation bins for seasonal clothing.
• Look around your home for materials you already have. An old bedsheet can become a ghost, cardboard boxes can turn into a robot, and spare fabric can be transformed into superhero capes.

Celebrating halloween on a budget

Halloween celebrations don’t have to involve high spending. A few simple touches can make the occasion feel special for your family.

• Buy treats from discount or pound shops to save money.
• Check with your local council for free or low-cost Halloween events, such as school parties, library story sessions, or pumpkin trails.
• Create a spooky atmosphere at home with lighting and music. String lights and a fun playlist go a long way.
• Reuse decorations from previous years or make your own with paper, string, and old jars.

Costume inspiration

Looking for ideas or thinking of making your child’s costume this year? These websites have easy, child-friendly ideas to get you started:

• Hobbycraft for costume ideas
• Country Living Magazine for 104 Easy DIY Halloween Costume Ideas for Kids

Remember to have fun

Halloween should be enjoyable and with a little planning and creativity, you can make it a fun, memorable, and budget-friendly experience.

Support for families

If you’re facing financial challenges, remember that support is available. FTCT provides grants to help families cover the cost of essential items for children.

You may be eligible for a grant if you work or have recently worked in the UK fashion and textile industry and care for a child under 18. Our charity supports families from all parts of the industry, including clothing, footwear, soft furnishings, and fabric companies.

We help parents in many situations, including:

• Financial hardship due to job loss, illness, or bereavement
• Families who have been rehoused after homelessness or unsafe living conditions
• Low-income households struggling with long-term financial challenges

What FTCT grants can help with:

• Clothing and school uniforms
• Bedroom furniture
• Study equipment, including laptops
• White goods and essential household items
• Specialist or sensory equipment
• Therapy and wellbeing support

Related FTCT support

You might also be interested in:

Helping Children Feel Confident at School

Budget Tips Every Parent Should Know