Americans go big for Halloween despite recession

October 22, 2009 Bill Crotty

Everyone knows that we're in a recession, but Time magazine reports that consumer spending is higher than ever when it comes to Halloween costumes and party decorations. In fact, Halloween sales are predicted to reach a record-breaking $6 billion this year, up 4.2 percent from last 2008.

Why have Americans gone all-out in such a lean year? The escapism and nostalgia of the holiday can make for a lot of fun, especially when the work force has spent the last year stressed-out and strapped for cash.

"With jobs and school, everyone is so tense," Nicole Amaya, a student who also works at JFK Airport told Time. "It's our a chance to step out of our element and go crazy a little bit. It's my one day to go all-in."

The news source also reports that some hosts will charge a fee at the door to recoup some of the hard-earned cash that went into things like party decorations and food.

And, not all Halloween activities have to cost money. A homemade costume or a pumpkin-carving party can be fun, inexpensive ways of embracing the spirit of the Holiday.