A Guide to Throwing a Memorable Halloween Party

So you want to throw a "kick butt" party for Halloween huh? You're in luck as we have some great tips to make this a memorable occasion for everyone involved. The first thing you need to do? Decide if this is a party for kids, adults, or both? This is an important decision because if there will be younger children present, then you may need to tone down some of the decorations and costumes to make them "kid friendly."

Another adjustment you may need to make is the timing of the party. Many parents with younger children will want to wrap up the celebrating at a reasonable hour, especially if the celebration falls on a school night. If no children will be present, you can go all out with the frightening decorations and make them look as realistic as you like.

Here are some fun ideas for parties involving each age group:

Adults Themes

- Crypt

- Cemetery

- Horror film scene

- Alien abduction or autopsy

Younger Kids Themes

- Cowboys and Indians

- Recent Disney movie

- Superhero

Family Themes

- A mild haunted house,

- Pirates,

- Ninjas

- Abandoned ghost town

- Mutants and zombies

Give some thought as to which themes are guest appropriate so that everyone is comfortable. The next important decision is to pick your activities. Scavenger hunts, ghost tours, scary stories around a bon fire, bobbing for apples, trivia games, costume contest, carving pumpkins, musical chairs, dancing, or even creating your own candy or caramel apple can be fun.

Don't forget to add prizes; whether you're 8 or 80, everyone loves prizes. It can be anything from desserts, toys, certificates, candles, or gift cards. Be creative with the prizes and have fun!

When it comes to party food there are many options:

· Grocery store treats and pre-made foods

· Delivery (Pizza, etc.)

· Pot Luck (Everyone brings a dish)

· Catering

· Make the treats yourself

If you're making the treats yourself, you have the option of adding more flair and fun. Give the treats fun names, and make them as mild or wild as you want! Here are some more great options to consider:

Cobwebs, plastic spiders, pumpkins, witches brooms and caldrons, chains, red stained ropes, fake rodents, rubber bats, coffins, mummies, scarecrows, or your old sheets turned into ghost-like figures. There's no end to the props you can use.

Send out your party invitations early. Whether they are web based or physical cards include the theme of the party, time, date, and of course the place. You may wish to add directions to the invitations as well. The last thing to consider is your own costume. Choose something fun, spooky, and start your party with smiles and lots of fun. Get ready for a memorable party!