Forget the terrifying clowns and gruesome body parts – Halloween is embracing a new wave of playful charm, according to a recent survey. Three quarters of Brits are opting for a lighter, more family-friendly approach to the spooky season, revealing a shift in how we celebrate Halloween.
The survey, conducted among 2,000 adults who partake in the festivities, revealed that while 33% go all out with decorations, they’re choosing charming, family-friendly designs over spine-chilling horrors. In fact, a significant 35% believe that Halloween gore has become excessive.
So, what are the most popular decorations? Playful pumpkins take the lead with 51% of respondents embracing their cheerful charm. Closely followed by cozy candles at 34% and twinkling string lights at 32%, these decorations create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for families and those seeking a less frightening celebration.
Nicki Rodriguez, a 48-year-old resident of Ongar, Essex, epitomizes the trend. As a home decorator for holidays like Easter, Halloween, and Christmas, she understands the shift towards a more inclusive approach. “I go all out for Halloween inside my own home, but I never have time to do the outside,” she explains. “This would be perfect, a dream come true, and a nice change. I totally relate to the trend of wanting more fun and friendly Halloween decorations. My son has autism, so I avoid gory or scary decor myself, and I notice my clients prefer nice, friendly decorations as well.”
The survey also highlights the growing desire for a more inclusive Halloween experience. Nearly a quarter (26%) of respondents said they’d be more likely to participate in the spooky season if it was less scary, and an equal number (26%) indicated they’d be more likely to visit a home decorated with family-friendly themes.
While Brits are still willing to spend on Halloween decorations, averaging £56 per household, the focus has shifted away from traditional spooky elements. Eerie cobwebs (30%), friendly phantoms (29%), and chilling skeletons (28%) remain popular, but the emphasis on fun and inclusivity is evident. One in 10 respondents, however, still admit to feeling uneasy or deterred by creepy adornments.
The survey also explored the motivations behind decorating. Almost half of the respondents (49%) confessed that their friends and family inspire them to deck out their homes for Halloween, while 46% simply relish the seasonal festivities. For 30%, carving pumpkins is the ultimate Halloween night activity, while baking Halloween treats (24%) and decorating homes (23%) are close contenders.
Sophia Padt, Mars Wrigley’s head of Halloween fun, who has partnered with Ring doorbell to revive the playful spirit of Halloween, comments, “Halloween should be for everyone, not just those who love the gruesome and gore. We hope to encourage more people to participate and create some entertaining memories along the way.”
As Halloween approaches, the trend towards a lighter, more inclusive approach is undeniable. Whether it’s the embrace of playful pumpkins, cozy candles, or simply the desire for a less scary experience, Halloween is evolving to be more welcoming and enjoyable for everyone.