The Business of BOO: Halloween’s $13.1 Billion Boost

Alright Wyoming, the air is starting to chill, pumpkin spice is taking over, and Halloween is right around the corner. According to the National Retail Federation, Americans are expected to spend $13.1 billion on Halloween in 2025, up from $11.6 billion last year. Nearly three-quarters of Americans plan to celebrate, driving sales across retail, manufacturing, and logistics.

Where the money goes:

• 78% will buy decorations

• 66% will hand out candy

• 51% will dress up

Most will shop at discount stores (42%), followed by online and specialty stores (31%). The result is a sweeping seasonal surge that touches nearly every corner of the economy

But this year’s celebration comes with a fright: 79% of Halloween shoppers expect higher prices this year, with tariffs cited as a major culprit. These tariffs act as taxes on businesses, pushing up costs for candy, costumes, and decorations. In turn, small businesses face tighter margins while consumers feel the pinch at the checkout line.

Shoppers are also starting earlier (49% begin before October) as major retailers embrace “Summerween.” Costumes remain a top draw, with spending projected to hit $4.3 billion, while candy reigns supreme at $3.9 billion, fueling a $49 billion industry impact nationwide.

WY It Matters: Halloween isn’t just a night of tricks and treats, it’s a showcase of American innovation and economic vitality. From the shelves of small-town candy shops to the global logistics networks that deliver costumes and décor, Halloween proves how business creativity can bring magic (and millions) to life.

And Halloween’s economic boost doesn’t skip Wyoming. Local retailers, grocery stores, and event organizers all benefit from the surge in seasonal spending and creative promotions.

From Main Street merchants to freight drivers, Halloween highlights how national spending holidays create local opportunities, and that’s something worth celebrating, no tricks about it. So this Halloween, keep the spirit (and the spending) close to home: shop local, celebrate local, and support the Wyoming businesses that make our community a little sweeter (and spookier) every year.