5 Ways to Make This Halloween the Most Magical Yet

This weekend, as I watched my teenage nephews try on their Halloween costumes for what will most likely be their last time going trick-or-treating, I am flooded with memories of Halloweens past. Growing up, we were that family who handed out apples to our trick-or-treaters -- I know, the horror! This was likely because we were too busy crafting our Halloween costumes to buy actual candy.

In our family, our costumes were always unique, playful and homemade. Looking back, one year that stands out above the rest was when my sister dressed as a box of Cracker Jack and I was a bag of Gold Medal Flour. So simple, yet so creative. We had the best time creating together as a family and, naturally, completed the night with a flour fight.

Halloween should be a magical time of year (pun intended). Here are a few tips for just how to make that happen.

1. Don’t forget that it’s all about the costume.
Whether it be store bought, homemade or somewhere in between, this is the one time a year when you can bust out of your comfort zone and go for it. It’s crunch time now, but if you’re in the Boston area and still in need of inspiration, check out The Garment District in Cambridge -- they’re open until midnight now through Halloween day.

2. Consider hosting an impromptu party!
Feeling overwhelmed with the details? Check out our Pinterest page for some quick ideas for both adult and family-friendly parties. Remember, you don’t have to be super over-the-top in order to have a great time. Also, don’t worry about falling into a “Pinterest Fail” -- they happen to the best of us and make for an amazing story!

3. Don’t just throw away your leftover candy.
Personally, I love Almond Joy (even though I know they aren’t for everyone). But after I pick out my favorites from a basket of candy, I’m often left with things I don’t particularly want to eat. So, if you find yourself with too much candy in the house on Nov. 1, consider sending it to the troops or donating it to your local food pantry.

4. Don’t let your trick-or-treating duties dampen your style.
Are you stuck at home giving out candy? Well, why not invite a few friends over and make a seasonal cocktail to share? Halloween should always be filled with ghouls AND giggles. We love these recipes from HGTV.

5. Finally, remember not to take this holiday too seriously.
It’s the perfect time to be silly, enjoy yourself, and most of all, make lasting memories.