Halloween is such a great time of year…we get to pretend to be someone, or someTHING else! It’s not, however, the greenest of holidays, especially of late. Millions of costumes made of synthetic fibers shipped all of the way from China are stocked in every store around town. They may set you back just $15 but the carbon footprint on those costumes is huge. So what are the alternatives?

Costumes

Get creative!

• Use items from around the house to make a costume.
• Visit thrift stores & consignment shops for used clothes and accessories to make the perfect ensemble.
• Borrow or trade costumes among friends.
• Paper maiche a mask!
• Want something new? Silk costumes are considered more eco-friendly than petroleum based polyester fibers.

Examples we’ve seen that worked great:

• The Chef: chef’s hat, apron, a mixing bowl & wooden spoon…toss some flour on your face for the full effect.
• Leftovers: perfect for someone that has a lot of used but clean aluminum foil leftover. Place all over body. Ta da! (Thanks to Baby Posh Garage for this idea!)
• “Just Out of the Shower”: a robe, slippers, and a towel around your hair.

Green Costume Ideas & Resources: 50 last minute costume ideas, green halloween costume ideas, Planet Green’s Halloween guide

Decorations

It’s harvest festival time, so let’s feature some of the great colors that nature has to offer!

• Use pumpkins, gourds and apples to decorate, and later cook them into delicious snacks, meals, and pies!
• Hang sheets as ghosts…think old school!
• Stuff jeans an a shirt with old plastic bags or newspaper to make a scarecrow
• Use recycled materials and recycle or reuse whatever you can after the big day is over.

Treats

Times they are a changin’. Don’t expect to see the same old candy that you received when growing up. There are many more eco-friendly options available now.

• Candy: organic candy bars and lollipops are sold at stores such as Whole Foods
• Toys: instead of junk food (even if it is organic), kids will enjoy things to play with. We’ve recently stumbled upon these soy-based crayon rocks. See more ideas at Green Halloween.

More Green Halloween Ideas

• Bring an extra bag along when trick or treating to pick up litter along the way. via: About.com
• Use  wind up or shakeable flashlights (you make the power) to guide you through your tricks and treats. via: Green Halloween