Halloween is a lot of fun for people of all ages. The chill air, excitement of treats, and playful macabre make for a holiday that’s joyful as it is spooky. But here’s the truly sinister part: behind all the fun lurks a less-than-fun reality, our heavy reliance on single-use plastics. From candy wrappers to single-use décor, Halloween sneaks more plastic into our lives than we often realize. The good news? Halloween is the perfect opportunity to take a pause and make a few easy, plastic-free swaps that actually stick, while still being festive!

Whether you’re just starting out or looking for creative ways to level up your spooky season, these tips can help you reduce single-use plastics without feeling overwhelmed. Let’s make this Halloween one to remember.

Why Plastic-Free?

Every year, Halloween generates an estimated 2,000 tons of plastic waste from candy wrappers, costumes, decorations, and packaging. This waste can linger in landfills for decades, harming wildlife and polluting ecosystems. Taking small steps to reduce single-use plastics during Halloween isn’t just good for the planet — it also sets a fun example for kids, neighbours, and your community. It all starts with one candy wrapper.

Six Easy Swaps for Your Monster Mash

1. Chase the Bag, Forget the Bucket

Plastic buckets are a classic choice, but they often end up in landfills. Try:

  • A pillowcase - roomy, reusable, and retro.
  • Fabric trick-or-treat bags - customizable, washable, and perfect for multiple years to come.
  • Your favourite tote - a modern, eco-friendly twist that doubles as a statement piece.

2. Change starts with treats

Single-use candy wrappers are a significant source of Halloween plastic waste.

Consider alternative options:

  • Foil-wrapped chocolates instead of plastic.
  • Bulk candy in paper bags.
  • Homemade treats wrapped in parchment or paper.

Even small swaps add up when multiplied across neighbourhoods.

3. Beyond Fast Fashion

Many store-bought costumes are heavy on plastic materials, plus they’re often worn only once. Keep it sustainable with:

  • DIY costumes made from items you already own.
  • Thrifted or swapped costumes from friends or community groups.
  • Fabric-based accessories instead of plastic masks or props.

Cheaper, greener, and way more creative than buying a plastic-heavy costume. Mom would be proud!

4. Share Your Artistic Side

Plastic décor items, such as foam tombstones, rubber bats, and single-use spider webs, can linger in landfills for years. Instead, try:

  • Carving pumpkins - compostable and fun.
  • Paper garlands and banners - recyclable and fully customizable.
  • Natural elements like gourds, leaves, or corn stalks. Festive and zero waste.

5. Skip Plastic Straws and Drinkware

If your Halloween party includes drinks or punch bowls, ditch the single-use plastic cups and straws. Try:

  • Reusable cups or glasses for guests.
  • Paper or metal straws instead of plastic.
  • Compostable drinkware for easy cleanup.

This keeps your party fun, festive, and plastic-free, no landfill hauntings required!

6. Support Sustainable Brands

Finally, look for companies that are actively reducing their use of single-use plastics. Supporting brands that use paper, glass, or compostable packaging sends a strong signal: consumers care about sustainability. Every purchase is a vote for the planet.

Additional Considerations

A plastic-free Halloween isn’t about doing everything perfectly. It’s about finding ways to enjoy the holiday while making choices that are more considerate of the planet. Small wins, like swapping a bucket, wrapper, or decoration, add up, and celebrating creatively can make the season even more enjoyable.

Share Your Swaps!

We want to see how you’re celebrating a plastic-free Halloween! Share your tips, hacks, and wins on social media using #PlasticFreeHalloween and #DitchPlasticPackaging.

Let’s keep the Halloween tradition alive - let’s keep it fun, creative, and free of single-use plastics!