Adults
Top five
1Witch4.8M
2Vampire4.2M
3Batman2.0M
4Spider-Man1.5M
5Ghost1.4M
Costume intelligence · 2026 edition
What everyone is wearing this Halloween
A practical, data-backed look at 2026’s biggest costume choices—and what changed from 2025. Use it to follow the crowd, avoid duplicate costumes or turn a familiar idea into something better.
Updated September 30, 2026 · U.S. survey dataThe 2026 leaders
Classic monsters still win
NRF’s annual consumer survey measures intended costumes. These are national estimates, not sales rankings, so they are best read as a reliable snapshot of planned demand.
Children
Top five
1Spider-Man4.6M
2Superhero2.3M
3Princess2.2M
4Witch1.6M
5Ghost1.6M
Pets
Top three
1Pumpkin11.6%
2Hot dog5.9%
3Ghost2.8%
The safest costume bet in 2026 is not a single character—it is a recognizable classic with one personal twist.
Year over year
2026 vs. 2025
2026 is a bigger-spending year, but the strongest ideas remain familiar. Character demand shifts quickly; classic costumes provide the stable baseline.
| Signal | 2026 | 2025 | What it means |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total U.S. Halloween spending | $13.5B | $13.1B | The category continues to grow. |
| Costume spending | $4.4B | NRF record year included | Costumes remain a major share of the holiday. |
| Adult standouts | Witch, vampire, Batman | Witch and classic characters stayed strong | Evergreen looks are easier to refresh than replace. |
| Discovery behavior | 47% report using AI; 32% use online search | Google Frightgeist tracked fast-moving search interest | People increasingly need ideas and execution help, not just products. |
Important: NRF survey estimates and Google search trends measure different things. FrightTour keeps them separate rather than pretending they form one universal ranking.
Make the guide useful
Four costume angles worth building
Avoid the duplicate
If your party is likely to have three witches, add a specific era, setting or color story: disco witch, desert witch or monochrome coven.
Build a group concept
Start with one high-demand anchor—like Spider-Man or vampire—and give every person a connected but distinct role.
Score effort honestly
Compare cost, build time, comfort, weather fit and how well the look survives a haunted-house queue.
Shop transparently
Start with useful finishing tools, compare options and check venue rules. A commission never changes FrightTour’s editorial rankings.
Fright-night essentials
Six practical finishing touches
These are evergreen shopping shortcuts for comfort, costume fixes and a smoother night. Check product details, fit and attraction rules before buying or bringing anything.
Finish the look
Costume makeup kits
Build bruises, shadows, monster details or a full character look without buying a head-to-toe costume.
Compare on Amazon (paid link) ↗Keep it together
Costume repair kits
Fashion tape, safety pins and a tiny sewing kit can rescue a hem, cape or accessory before the first queue.
Compare on Amazon (paid link) ↗Hands free
Small clear bags
A compact clear bag may simplify entry and keeps essentials visible, but always verify the venue’s size and bag policy.
Compare on Amazon (paid link) ↗Weather backup
Packable rain ponchos
A pocket-size poncho is easier to carry than an umbrella and can save an outdoor haunt when weather turns.
Compare on Amazon (paid link) ↗Stay powered
Pocket power banks
Useful for digital tickets, rideshare coordination and photos during a long event night.
Compare on Amazon (paid link) ↗Turn down the volume
Reusable earplugs
A discreet option for visitors who enjoy the scares but want more control over loud sound effects.
Compare on Amazon (paid link) ↗Affiliate disclosure: These Amazon links are paid links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. FrightTour may receive a commission at no added cost to you. Availability and prices can change. Read the full disclosure.
Sources and method
Where the numbers come from
2026 estimates: National Retail Federation 2026 Halloween survey. 2025 benchmark: National Retail Federation 2025 survey. Search-trend context: Google Frightgeist. Rankings and estimates can change as new data is published; brand and character names belong to their respective owners.