Americans projected to spend near-record $11.6B on Halloween this year

(TND) — Many Americans are already shopping for their Halloween costumes, candy and decorations.

The National Retail Federation said last week that this year’s Halloween spending is expected to hit $11.6 billion, down from last year’s record $12.2 billion but higher than any other year on record.

And 47% of those surveyed said they plan to start their Halloween shopping before October.

“Halloween marks the official transition to the fall season for many Americans, and consumers are eager to get a jump start on purchasing new seasonal décor and other autumnal items,” NRF Vice President of Industry and Consumer Insights Katherine Cullen said in a news release. “Retailers are prepared to meet this early demand by offering shoppers all the holiday essentials to make this year’s celebrations memorable.”

NRF’s survey found 72% of consumers plan to celebrate Halloween this year.

Per-person Halloween spending is projected to be $103 this year after hitting $108 last year.

Americans told the NRF that their top Halloween activities will include handing out candy (67%), decorating their home or yard (52%), dressing up in costume (49%), carving a pumpkin (43%) and throwing or attending a party (29%).

Candy remains the most popular with total spending expected to reach $3.5 billion.

About equal shares of consumers will get their Halloween merchandise at discount stores, specialty Halloween/costume stores, and online retailers.

Total spending on adult costumes is expected to reach $1.8 billion.

Spending on children’s costumes is expected to hit $1.3 billion.