83 Days ’Til Christmas – Plan a Halloween Party

This post is part of the 100 Days ’til Christmas Challenge — one small step each day to make the holiday season less stressful and a lot more fun.

We wait and wait all year for fall — and a Halloween party always feels like the official kick-off to the holiday season. The air turns crisp, pumpkins show up everywhere, and it’s finally our time to shine. And what better way to celebrate than by planning a Halloween party that everyone will look forward to?

The secret to actually enjoying your Halloween party (instead of stressing the whole day) is all in the planning. If you start now, you’ll give yourself time to get creative, gather supplies, and still have the energy left over to enjoy the night. Here’s a planning guide and timeline to keep you on track.

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Start with the Basics

Before you dive into recipes or decorations, lock in the core details of your Halloween party:

• Pick your date and time — will it be the weekend before Halloween, or the night of?
• Decide who’s coming — just family, kids’ friends, neighbors, or a bigger group?
• Choose your party style — casual get-together, spooky dinner, or costume contest.

This is where your Holiday Party Planner comes in handy. Instead of keeping it all in your head (and hoping you don’t forget), jot these decisions down so everything is organized from the start.

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Brainstorm the Fun Details

This is the part that makes your Halloween party memorable.

• Food: Decide if you want a full dinner, an appetizer spread, or just themed desserts.
• Activities: Costume contest, pumpkin decorating, spooky trivia, or even a playlist-powered dance floor.
• Decor: Pick a theme — spooky, cute, or glam — and stick to a simple color scheme so shopping is easier.

You don’t have to buy everything right away, but writing these ideas down now will keep you focused.

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Invitations and Supplies

Two weeks before your Halloween party is the perfect time to send out invitations. Paper, e-vites, or even a group text works — the key is getting the date on people’s calendars.

At the same time:

• Finalize your menu.
• Start a shopping list (separating non-perishables from fresh items).
• Begin gathering décor and supplies so you’re not scrambling later.

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The Countdown Timeline

Breaking things down by week makes your Halloween party prep feel manageable:

• One Week Before
  • Clean and declutter party areas.
  • Confirm RSVPs.
  • Shop for non-perishable food and drinks.
  • Organize decorations and supplies.
• Three Days Before
  • Grocery shop for fresh items.
  • Prep or bake anything that can be made ahead.
  • Double-check games, playlists, and activity stations.
• The Day Before
  • Decorate the main party areas.
  • Set up food and drink tables.
  • Prep food that can chill overnight.
  • Set aside serving dishes and utensils.
• The Day Of
  • Finish cooking and add last-minute décor.
  • Light candles, plug in string lights, or set up your “spooky vibe” lighting.
  • Get dressed early so you’re not scrambling.
  • Take a deep breath — your Halloween party is ready!

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🎃 Daily To-Do’s (83 Days ’Til Christmas)

• Decide if you’re going to host a Halloween party this year.
• Use your holiday planner to pick your date and time.
• Write down your guest list.
• Jot down food, activity, and décor ideas that pop into your head.
• Use the Holiday Party Planner to get those details out of your brain and onto paper.