Halloween Costumes and Parenting

Let’s face it: Halloween can seem like it’s really just for kids. Sometimes, I think about spending the evening at home, lights off, with a pile of newspapers at the door to avoid trick-or-treaters. But, well, I have kids of my own, so it’s not really an option. That means wandering the city with other parents, who, let’s be honest, also might not be that thrilled.

You can either stick with your comfortable dad uniform—jeans and a sweater—or throw on a costume, albeit with a bit of dignity lost in the process. Experience has shown me that the latter choice is usually the best way to go.

Investing in a decent makeup kit can definitely help your costume look at least somewhat frightening, based on the effort you put in.

Honestly, I’m not a fan of dressing up. The whole costume thing can be a hassle, especially when school just started and another vacation is around the corner. Who wants to deal with that?

Still, I feel like it’s my responsibility. Adults in regular clothes at Halloween? It just doesn’t cut it. It kind of brings the vibe down and ruins the event. So, every year, a few of us have to step up and do what needs to be done.

I’m not exactly a hero. Each Halloween, I tell myself I’ll skip it this time. But inevitably, I end up in a costume. I do enjoy having things to keep me busy, so here are some helpful tips I’ve put together, which might make your Halloween a little easier.

1. Keep it Simple

Don’t pick a costume that requires a lot of explanation. I decided last minute to throw together an outfit from an old shirt and my son’s trophy. Confidence is key. Instead of asking people to guess who you are, just own it. If they don’t get it, that’s on them. The laughs and nods I received while mingling told me everything I needed to know. Remember, a good costume is often all about the punchline—no setup necessary.

Here’s an example of what not to do. Back in 2008, I dressed up in a confusing costume that was supposed to represent something political, but it just didn’t land. To be honest, no one understood it, and it was awkward—everyone was either confused or annoyed.

2. Collaborate with Your Kids

This little one in a striped shirt? Now he’s 12 and this year’s costume is a creepy zombie. We had our fun together when he was younger, and those moments are fleeting. Soak it all in while you can; before you know it, they grow up, and the carefree days are gone.

Here’s an older photo with my daughter, who’s now getting ready for college while I quietly ponder where the time went.

3. Name Recognition Over Originality

Believe me, Halloween is not the time to flaunt your unique taste. A few years ago, I thought I had a brilliant idea for my wife’s costume, but it was so niche that hardly anyone recognized it. It’s better to go for something people know, like iconic music legends. Recognizable characters tend to get more attention than obscure references.

For instance, Freddie Mercury is a solid choice. Everyone knows him, even if they might not be fans of Queen—there’s something timeless about that look.

4. Don’t Overdo It

Let’s not focus too hard on complicated costumes. Sometimes, simpler is better. I once saw a breathtakingly detailed $300 Gene Simmons costume that left me feeling both impressed and overwhelmed. But the bottom line is, sometimes you just need to keep it manageable.

5. Don’t Upstage Your Partner

When I planned my costume, I wanted it to complement my wife’s. Couples don’t have to match, but I felt responsible for making sure she felt great in what she wore. It’s like those safety videos on airplanes—take care of those around you first.

6. Protect Your Space

As a dad of two daughters, I’m acutely aware that costumes can sometimes cross the line into inappropriate territory. There’s a balance between fun and keeping it respectful, especially around kids and older folks. I had to put my foot down when one particularly revealing costume made an appearance.

Happy Halloween to everyone! Enjoy the festivities while they’re here.