What are shoppers buying this Halloween? Superhero costumes

On Oct. 28 Timberlane Learning Center kindergarten students enjoyed showing off their Halloween costumes in their parade.

On Oct. 28 Timberlane Learning Center kindergarten students enjoyed showing off their Halloween costumes in their parade.
Business
By Kara Driscoll
Sept 22, 2017
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Americans are expected to spend more than $9 billion in Halloween spending this year, according to the National Retail Federation survey.

Consumers are expected to spend an average $86.13, up from last year’s $82.93, with 179 million Americans planning to partake in Halloween festivities, up from 171 million in 2016. Only 12.9 percent say their spending will be impacted by the economy, down from 14.1 percent last year and a peak of 32.1 percent in 2011.

Americans spent $8.4 billion last year for the October holiday.

» RELATED: Holiday sales expected to increase this season

“Americans are planning to spend more than ever as they gear up for Halloween,” said NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay. “Retailers are helping customers celebrate in style with a huge selection of costumes, candy and decorations to cater to ghosts and goblins of all ages.”

So what are people buying? More than 3.7 million children will dress up as a superhero this year, and more than 5.8 million adults will dress up as witches. About 2 percent will dress up as Wonder Woman, according to the NRF.

The survey asked 7,013 consumers about Halloween shopping plans. It was conducted September 5-13 and has a margin of error of plus or minus 1.2 percentage points.

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About the Author

Kara Driscoll