Nrf Halloween Survey 2026 Most Popular Costumes
Boo! It's that time of the year again when the spooky season takes over, and we're not just talking about the chills down your spine. The National Retail Federation's (Nrf) Halloween Survey for 2026 is here, and it's dishing out some tricks and treats on the most popular costumes this year. So, grab your pumpkin spice latte, and let's dive in!
Top 10 Costumes for 2026
Coming in at number one, and holding onto the throne for the third year in a row, is the classic witch. It's no surprise, really. With a flick of the wrist and a cackle, you're ready to cast spells and stir up some trouble. And the best part? You can dress up in anything from a pointy hat and a flowing robe to a sexy witch getup. It's all about interpretation, folks!
Taking the second spot is a character that's been making waves in popular culture - Daisy Jones from the hit TV show "Daisy Jones & The Six". With her boho-chic style and captivating story, it's no wonder everyone wants to channel their inner rockstar this Halloween.
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Rounding out the top three is a costume that's been a staple for decades - Spider-Man. Whether you're swinging from web to web or just trying to save the day, this costume is a crowd-pleaser for all ages. And with the latest Spider-Man movie breaking box office records, it's no surprise that this superhero is still going strong.
Pop Culture Takes the Stage
This year's survey shows that pop culture is still king when it comes to costume choices. Following Daisy Jones, other popular characters from TV, movies, and video games made the list. Mandy Moore from "This Is Us" and Elden Beast from "Elden Ring" are just a couple of examples. So, if you're looking for a costume that's on-trend and conversation-starting, consider a character from your favorite show or game.
But it's not just about the big screen and streaming platforms. This year, we're seeing a resurgence of costumes inspired by 90s nostalgia. Think: Lisa Frank, Saved by the Bell, and even the iconic "I'm Totally Buggin'" look from the movie "Clueless". So, dust off your slap bracelets and get ready to party like it's 1999!
DIY and Thrifty Costumes
While some people are willing to shell out big bucks for a costume, others are looking for more budget-friendly options. According to the Nrf survey, 69% of consumers plan to spend $50 or less on their Halloween costumes this year. So, if you're looking to save some cash, consider a DIY costume. You'd be surprised what you can create with a little creativity and a trip to your local thrift store.
Need some inspiration? How about turning an old sheet into a ghost costume, or using some cardboard and paint to create a robot getup? The possibilities are endless, and the best part is that you can customize your costume to make it truly unique.
Pets: Not Forgotten
Let's not forget about our furry friends! According to the Nrf survey, 29.1 million people will dress up their pets this year. And why not? There's nothing cuter than a tiny puppy dressed as a hot dog or a cat rocking a bat costume. So, get creative, and don't forget to snap a pic for the 'gram!
Reflecting on the Magic of Halloween
As we gear up for another spooktacular Halloween, it's clear that this holiday is about more than just candy and costumes. It's a chance to let our imaginations run wild, to step into someone else's shoes (or paws), and to connect with our community in a fun and creative way.
So, whether you're dressing up as a witch, a rockstar, or a beloved video game character, remember to have fun and embrace the magic of Halloween. After all, it's not every day we get to dress up and be someone (or something) else. And isn't that what life's all about - exploring, experimenting, and expressing ourselves in unique and unexpected ways?
Happy Halloween, everyone! May your candy bowl be full, your costumes be fabulous, and your spirits be high. Now, go forth and boogie with the ghosts!