how to host a last-minute and affordable halloween party
something a little spooky, a little simple, and justttt right (for your wallet)
Boo! Not to scare you… but it’s the week before halloween (already??), and if you don’t have plans yet, this is your sign to be the friend who gets everyone together for a spooky little hang. I know last‑minute parties can feel like a lot, but no need to get your goblins in a twist, I’ve got you.
I host a monthly “Always Better With Company” get‑together and I’ve thrown my fair share of halloween nights over the years — from 14 to 18 to 22 — on all kinds of budgets. As in… sometimes, no budget at all. So if you want quick, affordable ideas that still give all the vibes, you’re in the right place!
the frighteningly fabulous food
Fill up on little bites so you and your friends don’t turn into mummies by midnight.
Spooky charcuterie
Never a bad idea. Make it as fancy or frugal as you want. Crackers, cheese, olives, apple slices, nuts. Bonus points for bat and ghost‑shaped cheese or a few tiny plastic spiders.
Ghostly spaghetti + meatballs
If you’re thinking of staying in and making dinner why not make your go‑to spaghetti. Add a mozzarella round on each meatball and olive “eyes” so they look like mini ghosts.
Mummies in a blanket
The typical pigs in a blanket but make them spooky. Use dogs or veggie dogs, then add thin strips of pastry for mummy wraps and then some little mustard eyes.
Lollipop ghost graveyard
Wrap lollipops in tissues with a tiny ribbon “neck,” then stick them upright in foam or a decorated box so it looks like a cute little graveyard. My grandma did this when I was young and it’s a forever favorite of mine!
Skull veggie platter
Arrange cauliflower into a “skull,” add olive eyes, and surround with crunchy veg + your favorite dip.
dangerously delicious drinks
Because what’s a halloween party without a spooky sip or two?
Jell‑O shot syringes
Plastic syringes are easy to find around halloween (even in your local dollar store). Make Jell‑O, pull it into the syringes, chill overnight. Easy peasy jell-o shot squeezy.
Mummy‑wrapped bottles
Wrap a bottle of wine, cider, or soda with masking tape or gauze. Draw on eyes. Now you have simple decor and a drink!
Pumpkin ice bucket
Hollow a pumpkin, fill with ice, pop in bottles. Viola! This is perfect if you don’t have an ice bucket of your own and need a quick & decorative moment. Bonus points for those who roast the seeds after too.
Bloody sangria
Simple, scalable, and cheap. One of my favorite go-to party drinks. Orange juice, brandy, chopped apple + orange, sugar, and a dry Spanish red. Here’s an easy reference if you want measurements: minimalist baker sangria.
Pumpkin wine bag
So simple and cute. Carve a pumpkin, cut a small hole for a boxed‑wine spout, slide the bag in, thread the spout through. I need someone to do this and report back.
devilishly easy decor
No need to decorate to the nines — your costumes will carry the vibe (hopefully). However, a few cheap touches go far:
Paper towel ghost lamp shade
Drape tissue or paper towels over a lamp, draw little ghost faces. Make sure it’s safe and not touching hot bulbs. Let’s keep a fire-free night, please!
Haunted drippy candlesticks
One of my favorite forms of decorating. Cluster a few candles and let the wax drip. Scatter some additional candles around the house. Dim the lights and now you have a spooky little vibe.
Bloody mirror notes
Use red lipstick or a glass pen to write “You’re next” or “Happy Halloween.” Keep it cute or scary, whichever way you prefer!
Spider web overload
The classic for a reason. Stretch over art, shelves, corners. Add a few spiders and call it a day. A cheap and easy way to decorate with little expense and low-effort.
Projector vibes
If you have one, play a black‑and‑white horror film on mute in the background. Sets the mood in the best way possible.
activities so people remember the night
Get everyone involved with something low‑lift.
Suspect wall Polaroids
When guests arrive, snap a pic and stick it on a DIY “suspect wall.” Use wrapping paper works as a great and easy backdrop.
Pumpkin painting
Less mess than carving and lasts longer. Ask your friends to bring leftover paint or grab a few colors from the dollar store.
Pizza party
I’m a fool for a goof homemade pizza night. Try to get creative and shape the dough like pumpkins. Or, cut mozzarella into ghosts and add little olive eyes.
Costume contest
Get everyone to vote at some point in the night once everyone arrives. Make categories like Funniest, Scariest, Most Creative. Bonus points for having a mini gift for the winners.
TikTok predictions
Quick clips like “Who’s going to be the drunkest?” or “Who’s winning Best Costume?” I love a video like this because you can watch back the next morning for a silly little laugh.
Hopefully this gives you some last‑minute, affordable ideas to throw a cute halloween night with your friends. If you try anything, I want to see! Comment below what you do or tag me in my socials! Have a fabulous, safe spooky season.
Until next time my little goblins!
xoxo,
Avalon