Party checklist
Halloween party checklist
Choose who the party is for and how scary it should be. Enter the date and the guest count and the list dates four weeks of tasks and counts treat bags, pumpkins, cups and prizes.
Four weeks before: set the tone
Decorations and atmosphere
Games and activities
Food and drink
Treats to hand out
Party day
The next day
Tips for a Halloween party
- Halloween night itself is often taken by trick-or-treating. The weekend before usually gets more guests; enter whichever date you choose and the tasks follow it.
- Decorate the entrance, the food table and one photo spot well, and leave the rest. Three strong areas read as a decorated house.
- For a mixed-age party, keep one room bright and calm. The list adds it when you choose families, all ages.
- Treat bag, cup and pumpkin numbers are planning estimates from your guest count. Costumed siblings tend to appear, which is why there are spares.
Questions
When should I start planning a Halloween party?
Four weeks before on this list, mainly so invitations and the costume contest categories go out in time for people to prepare. Enter your date to see each task's day.
How does the list change for adults?
Children's games, treat bags and glow sticks go. A theme for the night, a quiz or murder mystery, a hot dish for later and a labelled drinks table for adults come in.
How many treat bags do I need?
One for each guest plus two spare, counted from the guest number you enter. They appear for children's and family parties.
Can children decorate pumpkins without carving?
Yes. With pumpkin decorating switched on the list plans one small pumpkin each with paint pens and stickers, and suggests keeping any carving for adults at a separate table.
Related lists
Kids birthday party planning checklist
Six weeks of tasks with real dates, plus plates, cups and party bags counted for your guest list.
Thanksgiving dinner hosting timeline
Three weeks from guest list to leftovers, with the Tuesday and Wednesday jobs spelled out.
New Year's Eve party checklist
A long evening that peaks at midnight: food in waves, a toast for everyone and a way home.