10 Creative Ways to Celebrate 'Hallo-Tween' with Your Older Kids

Oct. 18, 2023

Elva Etienne/Getty

As kids grow, Halloween celebrations can shift from the joyous days of elaborate costumes and trick-or-treating to a more subdued experience. I fondly recall the thrill of my kids eagerly discussing their Halloween costumes as early as July, only to change their minds countless times. Now, with teens who are “too cool” for traditional festivities, I find myself longing for those simpler times. It’s perfectly normal to reminisce about the days when they couldn’t wait to collect candy and sort through their haul. Yet, we can still create memorable Halloween moments together, just in a different way. Here are 10 fun ideas to celebrate ‘Hallo-Tween’ with your older kids:

1. Pumpkin Carving or Painting

At first, my teens weren’t interested in this activity, but once I set up the supplies, they got into it. Provide each with their own carving kit and snacks, and invite friends over for a crafting session. The end result may be quirky, but the joy is in the process. Plus, roasted pumpkin seeds are a delightful treat!

2. Throw a Themed Party

You don’t need to host an extravagant event to have fun. Let your teens take the reins! They can create their own costumes, invite friends, and curate the menu. If you’re passionate about Halloween, explore unique party ideas that allow you all to enjoy spooky vibes at home.

3. Hand Out Candy

There’s something special about seeing little ones in costumes. Turn on your porch light, and let your teens take charge of distributing candy. Framing it as a fun duty for them makes it more enjoyable, and they can even dress up while doing it!

4. Dine Out

Before the candy distribution begins, treat your family to dinner at a favorite restaurant. It’s a great way to spend quality time together while enjoying the festive atmosphere and local decorations.

5. Haunted Attractions

Admittedly, I’m not a fan of haunted walks or hayrides due to the suspense, but my kids love them! I join them each year, ensuring I’m surrounded by them for moral support. If your teens enjoy spooky activities, these outings can be a blast.

6. Movie Marathon

A Halloween movie marathon is a simple yet effective way to get into the spirit of the season. Whether they prefer horror or family-friendly flicks, it’s a cozy way to bond together.

7. Sleepover Fun

Allow your teens to invite friends over for a sleepover filled with blankets, pizza, and candy. It’s heartwarming to hear their laughter, and who says you’re too old for a little Halloween indulgence?

8. Backyard Bonfire

There’s nothing quite like the smell of a bonfire on a cool autumn night. Wrap up in flannels, share ghost stories, or enjoy roasting hot dogs and marshmallows under the stars.

9. Candy-filled Pumpkins

Surprise them with a pumpkin filled with their favorite treats. It’s like Halloween meets Easter! Throw in a gift card for a local snack spot, and you’ll surely bring a smile to their faces.

10. Help Younger Kids

If your teens feel they’ve outgrown trick-or-treating, encourage them to take younger siblings or neighbor kids. It allows them to stay involved in the fun while being helpful to others.

Want more tips and ideas? Be sure to check out our guide on privacy policies for more information.

Here are some related links that may interest you:

Search Queries:

In summary, while Halloween with older kids may look different than it did in their younger years, there are still countless ways to celebrate and create lasting memories. Embrace the season together with a mix of nostalgia and new traditions.

10 Creative Ways to Celebrate ‘Hallo-Tween’ with Your Older Kids