A Halloween costume contest offers a unique, engaging event that draws a crowd and spreads community spirit. Plus, it’s a blast for people of all ages (and their pets)!
Let’s dive into how you can put together a Halloween costume contest that’s fun, easy to manage, and sure to leave everyone smiling from ear to ear!
How to Host a Halloween Costume Contest
Set Your Goals and Budget
Before you dive into planning, set clear goals. How much do you want to raise, and what are your estimated costs? This will help guide decisions on entry fees, prizes, and other expenses. Try to keep your overhead low by seeking sponsorships from local businesses or asking for donations.
Choose a Venue
Your venue depends on your crowd size and weather. Indoor spaces like community centers or school gyms are perfect, but if the fall weather is cooperative, consider hosting it outdoors in a park or open space. Just remember to have a backup plan in case the weather takes a spooky turn!
Charge an Entry Fee
Charging a small fee for participants to enter the contest is one of the easiest ways to raise funds. You can offer different fee levels depending on the costume contest category and provide discounts for families or group entries to encourage participation.
Include Prizes
Get local businesses or community members to donate prizes, or create themed prize baskets with goodies for each category. This adds excitement and gives people a fun incentive to go all out with their costumes.
Use Online Tools to Manage Registration
Streamline your event by managing everything online. With Cheddar Up, you can easily set up an online page for people to pay their entry fee, select their costume contest category, and sign a photo release. You can even get started with this snazzy Halloween costume contest template.
Spread the Word
Use social media, email, and posters to promote your costume contest. Show off some early costume inspiration to get people excited! Creating a “Best Of” from last year’s photos or having a countdown to the event are great ways to build buzz. And with your own event collection page, getting the word out about registration is a breeze.
Halloween Costume Contest Categories for All Ages (And Pets!)
Costume Contest Categories for Kids (Ages 0-12)
- Cutest Costume: Think adorable pumpkins, baby animals, or anything that makes people say “aww!”
- Most Creative: This is for those homemade costumes that show off some serious imagination — like a DIY robot or a jellyfish made out of umbrellas and LED lights.
- Best Character Costume: Whether they’re channeling their favorite superhero, princess, or cartoon character, this category highlights the best on-screen looks. Want to take an education spin on this? Opt for a ‘Best Literary Character’ category instead!
Costume Contest Categories for Teens (Ages 13-17)
- Best DIY Costume: For those teens who go all-out with glue guns, scissors, and sheer creativity.
- Scariest Costume: Let’s face it — teens tend to go darker with their costumes, so give them the space to show off their spooky side.
- Best Group Costume: This category encourages teens to coordinate with friends. Think famous squads from movies, pop culture icons, or even matching “undead” looks.
Costume Contest Categories for Adults (18+)
- Funniest Costume: The category for those laugh-out-loud looks — whether it’s a hilarious meme or a pun-based costume that makes everyone chuckle.
- Best Couples Costume: Halloween is a great time to coordinate with a significant other or friend, so have a category that celebrates the best duos.
- Best Pop Culture Costume: From current celebrities to viral internet sensations, this category captures what’s trending.
Pet Costume Contest Categories
- Cutest Pet Costume: For those who just want to show off their adorable, costume-wearing pets. You can’t go wrong with a tiny dragon, bumblebee, or superhero dog.
- Funniest Pet Costume: There’s nothing funnier than a dog in a taco suit or a cat dressed as a pirate!
- Best Pet & Owner Duo: This is perfect for pet parents who love matching their furry companions. Think “hot dog and mustard” or superhero sidekick themes.
Tips for a Successful Halloween Costume Contest
- Plan Ahead for Voting: Whether you have live judges or let the audience vote, make sure the voting process is clear and easy.
- Offer Snacks and Beverages: Hosting a concession stand can also be a way to raise additional funds. Sell festive fall treats like pumpkin spice cupcakes, hot cider, or candy bags to keep everyone in the Halloween spirit.
- Celebrate with a Costume Parade: This gives everyone a chance to show off their costume and makes for great photo ops!
