Halloween Spirit Thrives as Most Americans Embrace the Holiday

Wed Oct 29 2025 01:05:25 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As Halloween approaches, a large majority of Americans are gearing up for the festivities, with parents leading the charge in celebrating this spooktacular time of year.

In the lead-up to Halloween, Sherry Jenkins from Blairstown, New Jersey, epitomizes the holiday spirit by preparing for trick-or-treaters and decorating her home. Polls indicate that about two-thirds of U.S. adults are planning to celebrate Halloween this year, particularly parents with children under 18. Reports showcase various perspectives on Halloween festivities from across the country, highlighting traditions, decorations, and costume choices.

NEW YORK (CIVITAS) — Sherry Jenkins is all about Halloween. Living in Blairstown, New Jersey—the original filming location for 'Friday the 13th'—she’s caught in a seasonal spirit that draws tourists and brings locals together to celebrate with parades and various activities. Every year, Jenkins, 69, goes all out to welcome around 1,000 trick-or-treaters, firmly believing in sugary treats over healthier alternatives.

Recent polling by the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research reveals that approximately two-thirds of U.S. adults will be celebrating Halloween this year. Enthusiasm runs high among parents, especially those with children under 18, who are likely to participate in activities like trick-or-treating.

“We're definitely where the party is,” said Jenkins, dispelling the idea of healthier snacks for her youthful visitors. “I learned my lesson when I passed out raisins one year!”

Decorating her yard and planning last-minute costumes, Jenkins finds comfort in the tradition of handing out candy rather than opting for healthy snacks—only 5% of adults will give out alternatives to candy, according to the indicating poll.

Parents Take the Lead in Festivities

The spirit of Halloween is particularly alive among parents. Around 80% of those with children under 18 plan to celebrate, a stark contrast to the 60% of adults without kids. In Kingman, Arizona, Jessica Byrd, 34, cites Halloween as her favorite holiday, particularly enjoying the atmosphere of friendliness that permeates the day.

“You get free candy, and everyone is nice and welcoming,” Byrd notes, as she prepares to accompany her children trick-or-treating dressed in creative costumes from beloved movies.

Meanwhile, Fred Joncas from Durham, North Carolina, shares a similar excitement as he plans to amaze his 3-year-old daughter with a fun-filled evening of trick-or-treating.

Year-Round Fans of Halloween

Not everyone has a moderate approach to Halloween. Byrd indulges her enthusiasm with decor that brightens her home year-round, featuring witches and skeletons. Approximately 30% of U.S. adults intend to decorate for Halloween this year, with many stating plans to carve pumpkins as well.

Kathy Rice, 75, from Colorado Springs, Colorado, is another personal enthusiast who cherishes Halloween traditions from her childhood. Engaging in decorating and exchanging treats with her neighbor enhances her attachment to the holiday.

While many choose to relish in Halloween festivities, some like Karalyn Kiessling prefer a more subdued celebration. Balancing a moderate approach, she enjoys parties and dressing up without overwhelming decorations at home, keeping a playful spirit alive as Halloween approaches.

“We’re excited to see what kinds of costumes and decorations emerge this year, paying homage to the spooky season in our own ways,” she said.

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The recent AP-NORC poll surveyed 1,289 adults between October 9-13, showcasing a diverse range of Halloween plans across the United States, setting the stage for a hauntingly good time this October.