The Halloween Spirit: A Glimpse into America's Festive Season

Thu Oct 30 2025 04:29:27 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Explore the diverse ways Americans are gearing up for Halloween, from traditional trick-or-treating to unique decorations, celebrations, and personal stories from fans across the country.

As Halloween approaches, a new poll indicates that two-thirds of U.S. adults plan to celebrate the spooky holiday in various ways. From dressing up and handing out candy to elaborate home decorations, America embraces this beloved tradition with enthusiasm. Parents, in particular, are leading the way, happily participating in costume parties and trick-or-treating festivities with their kids.

NEW YORK (AP) — As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to fall, the spirit of Halloween takes center stage across America. Sherry Jenkins from Blairstown, New Jersey, is an embodiment of that spirit, well acquainted with the holiday that draws tourists to the town famous for the filming of 'Friday the 13th.' At 69, she eagerly prepares for Halloween by hosting friends and welcoming over a thousand trick-or-treaters each year.

According to a recent poll from the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, roughly 66% of U.S. adults will celebrate Halloween this year, with a notable surge among parents of children under 18, who enthusiastically embrace the festivities. We’re definitely where the party is, Jenkins remarked, dismissing the idea of healthy alternatives to traditional candy. I did that one year when I got raisins, and everybody made fun of me.

In fact, only 5% of adults plan to pass out healthy snacks, illustrating that the quintessential Halloween experience remains tied to sweets and sugary treats. Decorations and costumes also play a significant role, as seen in Jenkins's yard, where spooky themes come alive every October.

Parents Lead the Halloween Charge

Approximately 80% of parents with young children say they will partake in Halloween celebrations, marking a stark contrast to the 60% participation rate among adults without kids. In Kingman, Arizona, Jessica Byrd celebrates the holiday alongside her teenage son and younger daughter, relishing not just the sweet treats but also the joy of community and creativity. Dressing up as a family, Byrd is excited to share the trick-or-treating experience with her kids this year.

With many parents planning elaborate costumes and fun outings, the anticipation builds for the cherished October holiday. In Durham, North Carolina, Fred Joncas looks forward to trick-or-treating with his daughter, inspired by her excitement that has filled their conversations since spring.

Die-Hard Halloween Fans

While some celebrate Halloween modestly, there are also extensive enthusiasts like Byrd, whose home remains adorned with Halloween themes year-round. Around 30% of adults plan to showcase decorations and about 25% will carve pumpkins, a testament to the holiday's rich traditions. Kathy Rice from Colorado Springs recalls her cherished childhood memories of Halloween as a vibrant occasion shared among friends and family.

Moderation in Celebration

However, not everyone dives deeply into the festivity; some adults, like Karalyn Kiessling, enjoy Halloween in a more subdued manner, opting for costume parties without extensive decorations. This pragmatic approach reflects the diversity in how people choose to connect with Halloween.

The AP-NORC poll conducted from October 9-13, with a sample of 1,289 adults, highlights the fascinating tapestry of Halloween celebrations across the United States, bringing to light the myriad ways that tradition, creativity, and community spirit intertwine during this time of year.