Fort Worth has claimed a new title as the top city in Texas for Halloween enthusiasm, ranking fifth nationally, according to a recent report by Betway. The online gaming company evaluated social media engagement and search trends to assess public excitement for Halloween, a holiday expected to generate approximately $13.1 billion in consumer spending across the United States this year.
On October 30, 2025, Fort Worth resident Delilah Trillo exemplified this growing enthusiasm as she browsed through Halloween merchandise at a local Goodwill store. Her mission was to gather accessories for a Jurassic Park-themed trick-or-treat display for her son’s school event. “That’s the vibe I’m going for,” Trillo expressed, highlighting her dedication to creating an engaging experience for her child.
According to Betway’s “spooky score” report, cities like Orlando, Florida, Cleveland, Ohio, Salt Lake City, Utah, and Baltimore, Maryland, also demonstrated significant Halloween spirit. In Texas, Fort Worth topped the list, followed by cities such as San Antonio, Plano, Houston, and Austin. The report noted, “From glowing jack-o’-lanterns on front porches to ghost tours, themed parties, and costume parades, the Halloween season offers endless ways to celebrate.”
Halloween Spending Trends in Fort Worth
As Halloween approaches, Fort Worthians are actively purchasing decorations and costumes, contributing to the local economy. A separate study by WalletHub ranked Fort Worth No. 55 nationally in terms of Halloween spending, revealing that the average American household plans to spend over $114 on decorations, costumes, and other related expenses. Laredo emerged as the top Texas city for Halloween spending, ranking No. 17 nationally, followed by Irving, El Paso, Arlington, and Garland.
The WalletHub study assessed various factors, including the number of costume stores per capita and potential trick-or-treat stops, determining that approximately 73% of U.S. households plan to celebrate Halloween this year. Notably, consumers are projected to spend around $4.3 billion on costumes and $3.9 billion on candy.
Fort Worth is home to several retailers specializing in Halloween merchandise, including Magic Etc./Fort Worth Costume Inc., a business that has operated year-round for 40 years, and Harris Costumes, established in 1949. These stores cater to the city’s growing demand for unique Halloween items.
Thrift Shopping Becomes Popular
Economic uncertainties, including inflation and potential government shutdowns, have prompted some consumers to explore second-hand retailers and thrift stores for Halloween items. Goodwill, which offers Halloween merchandise in all its stores, has reported an influx of shoppers interested in assembling do-it-yourself costumes with affordable materials. Goodwill’s seasonal “Bootiques” in Fort Worth and surrounding areas feature a wide array of Halloween-themed items.
A survey conducted by Goodwill Industries International Inc. revealed that 84% of consumers, particularly those from Generation Z, are turning to thrift stores for recyclable materials to create their Halloween costumes. The survey also indicated that 65% of Gen Z consumers plan to spend less on costumes this year.
Shay Gipson, vice president of community engagement for Goodwill North Texas, noted that they have provided budget-friendly costume ideas online. “We put some looks together for under $20,” Gipson stated. “When you’re going to the bigger Halloween specialty stores, you’re spending $50, $60, sometimes $75 on a costume when you can really get an idea online or ask AI and then get those items from a Goodwill store.”
The shift towards thrift shopping aligns with an increasing awareness of sustainability among younger consumers, who are keen to reduce their environmental impact and contribute to charitable causes. Goodwill has noted a notable increase in younger customers during the Halloween season, reflecting a trend towards more mindful spending.
As Fort Worth enjoys its newfound title as Texas’s Halloween capital, the city’s residents demonstrate a vibrant commitment to celebrating the spooky season through shopping, creativity, and community engagement. The combination of social media trends, economic factors, and individual creativity continues to shape the Halloween landscape in this lively Texas city.
