Halloween has always been one of my favorite times of the year — not because of the scary stuff, but because of the fun and creativity that come with it! 🎃 Whether you’re into spooky decor, trick-or-treating, or just staying home with snacks and scary movies, there’s always something magical about October 31.
And for us Filipino moms? It’s the perfect excuse to go all out for the kids — without spending too much. From DIY costumes to home parties, here are family-friendly Halloween ideas you can try this year!
1. DIY Halloween Costumes — Gawa Lang sa Bahay!
Let’s be honest — kids’ costumes can be pricey! So why not make your own? Use old clothes, paper, or even bedsheets. One year, Ykaie was a mini ghost made out of a white blanket with cut-out eyes. Twinkle once went as a little “aswang” — I just used face paint and old black clothes. Instant hit!
If your child loves cartoons, you can also create simple character looks using cardboard and markers. It’s a fun bonding activity, too!
2. Halloween at Home Party
If you’re skipping the crowds, bring the party home! Decorate your living room with black and orange balloons, light up a few candles, and play spooky sound effects. Then serve fun themed snacks — think “monster sandwiches,” “mummy hotdogs,” or “bloody” red juice (aka Kool-Aid 😄).
We usually turn off the lights, play a “haunted house” game, and let the kids take turns scaring each other with flashlight stories. Simple, but full of laughter!
3. Bake-and-Decorate Spooky Treats
If there’s one thing we love at home, it’s themed food! You can make sugar cookies and let your kids decorate them with candy eyes and orange icing. Or make cupcakes and call them “witch hats” or “pumpkin bites.”
It’s also a sneaky way to get them involved in the kitchen — and they’ll be so proud showing off their spooky creations.
4. Movie Night: Cute, Not Creepy!
Not every Halloween has to be scary. Some of the best nights we’ve had were spent watching family-friendly Halloween movies. Try Hotel Transylvania, Coco, The Addams Family, or Casper.
Add popcorn, dim the lights, and make a cozy movie fort with blankets and pillows. Perfect for kids who get easily scared (and moms who fall asleep halfway 😅).
5. Trick-or-Treat with a Twist
If your neighborhood doesn’t do trick-or-treat anymore, bring the fun indoors! Hide candies around the house and let your kids go on a “ghost hunt.” You can even include little tasks like “dance like a zombie” or “sing a monster song” before they get their treats.
It’s easy, fun, and still gives them the excitement of the holiday — minus the traffic and crowds.
Halloween doesn’t have to be about fear — it’s about fun, family, and creativity. Whether you celebrate big or small, what matters most is the laughter you share and the memories you make.
So this year, grab your glue gun, your candy stash, and your camera — because October 31 is all about funny faces, family time, and a few good screams! 😂👻
