When September arrives and the nights start drawing in, many people start thinking about decorating their homes with autumn wreaths, warm tones and soft candles in preparation for the arrival of Autumn.
But if Halloween is your thing, you probably can’t wait to throw in some skeletons, witch hats, and fake tombstones. But when should you actually start decorating for Halloween?
The Excitement of Autumn and Halloween Decorating
Autumn brings bright colours, fresh air, and the excitement of upcoming holidays. Many see this time as the perfect chance to spruce up their homes with elements that capture the season’s vibe. With Halloween looming decorations can also include anything from eerie setups to playful, spooky lighting, but deciding when to begin can be tricky.
Survey Insights: When Do People Start Decorating for Halloween?
A recent Instagram poll asked followers about their timeline for Halloween decorating. The poll got 4,624 answers and showed a mix of opinions:
- 22% think it’s never too early to start.
- 63% wait until October 1.
- 15% hold off until the week before Halloween.
This shows that while some people dive into the Halloween mood early, most hold out until October. The mix of responses reflects different traditions, and there’s no “right” answer - just what feels right to you.
Expert Opinions: When to Start Your Halloween Decorations
Given the varied opinions on when to start outdoor Halloween decorations, we sought advice from experts in home décor and seasonal styling. Here’s what they had to say:
Dayna Isom Johnson’s Perspective: Wait for the Cool Weather
Dayna Isom Johnson, an Etsy expert, says that the best time to start Halloween decorating often ties in with the cooler weather. She shares, "There’s no perfect time to start, but I love to bring out the cobwebs and pumpkins when the air feels cooler and crisper".
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Why Wait for Cool Weather?
- The cool weather sets a cosy, spooky atmosphere perfect for Halloween.
- It feels more natural to embrace Halloween décor when it matches the seasonal shift.
Lynn Lilly’s Approach: October 1 as the Official Start Date
Lynn Lilly, founder of Craft Box Girls, follows a more structured timeline, waiting until October 1 to kick off her Halloween decorating. She believes in marking the start of the month as the ideal time to transition from fall harvest décor to full-blown Halloween themes.
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Advantages of an October Start:
- Aligns with the start of the Halloween season and gives ample time to enjoy the décor.
- Provides a clear transition point from fall to Halloween.
Kerrie Kelly’s Advice: Start Small in September
For those who can’t wait until October, Kerrie Kelly, creative director of Kerrie Kelly Design Lab, suggests beginning in September with subtle touches. "If you’re eager to start, try adding spooky candles, soft lighting, and cosy blankets with Halloween designs to your home," she advises.
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Ideas for a Subtle September Start:
- Incorporate spooky-themed candles and lighting.
- Use cosy throw blankets with Halloween motifs.
- Add small, tasteful touches that hint at the upcoming holiday without overwhelming the space.
Tips for Early Halloween Decor Enthusiasts
If you feel the Halloween excitement early, you’re not alone. Starting early can be a great way to ease into the season. Here are some tips to help you start without doing too much
- Start with Fall Harvest Décor: Begin with pumpkins, gourds, and leaf garlands, which can easily transition into Halloween.
- Add Subtle Halloween Touches: Use décor items like black or orange candles, minimal spider webs, and small pumpkin lanterns.
- Mix and Match with Everyday Items: Incorporate Halloween-themed items with your everyday décor to avoid a complete overhaul of your space.
For a more extensive collection of ideas, check out these Halloween decorations.
Considering Community Norms and Neighbours
While decorating is a personal choice, keep your neighbours in mind. Going big with Halloween decor in early September might clash if others are still enjoying summer vibes. Here’s what to consider:
- Observe Your Neighbours: See what others are doing. If their decor is still summery, maybe start with less flashy Halloween items.
- Choose Transitional Décor: Find pieces that work for both fall and Halloween, like dried leaves or mums.
- Respect Community Guidelines: Some places might have guidelines on seasonal decorations, so stay informed.
Embracing Your Halloween Spirit
In the end, deciding when to decorate is up to you. Whether you jump into Halloween early or stick to a traditional timeline, the key is to enjoy it. Decorating should be fun and reflect your love for the season.
Remember, you don’t need to go all out for a big effect. Sometimes, a few well-placed inflatable Halloween decorations or a simple pumpkin display can create the perfect Halloween mood.
Some Outdoor Halloween Decoration Ideas
Looking for some inspiration for your outdoor space? Check out our list of outdoor Halloween decorations ideas that are sure to impress:
- Front Garden Gravestones: Create a spooky graveyard with inflatable tombstones or DIY options.
- Haunted House Look: Use cobwebs, fake spiders, and eerie lighting to give your home a haunted appearance.
- Pumpkin Pathway: Line your walkway with carved or painted pumpkins to welcome trick-or-treaters.
For a full collection of Trade Warehouse's outdoor decoration ideas, visit our Halloween decorations page.