Halloween Costs Give Families a Fright as Tariffs Drive Up Candy and Costume Prices
Hampton Roads, VA – On Saturday, Affordable Virginia sponsored a community Trunk or Treat, bringing families together for Halloween fun while drawing attention to how tariffs are raising the cost of candy, costumes, decorations, and more. Congress has failed to repeal this Administration's tariff policies.
“The cost of Halloween costumes for my kids this year was ridiculous. Everything is getting more expensive, and even a fun tradition like dressing up is stretching our budget. I didn’t realize how many things tariffs could make more expensive,” said Lakeshia, Hampton Roads resident. “It was nice to come out, have fun with the community and enjoy something without worrying about the cost.”
Halloween candy prices are up 15% more over last year, four times the rate of inflation, with aluminum tariffs adding to packaging costs. A 100-piece bag of candy is $16.96 in 2026, up 3.5% from last year, and 71% since 2021. Costumes are also getting more expensive. A costume that cost $20 in 2024 can now cost about $60. These increases put another strain on families already paying more for everyday necessities.
“We sponsored this event to bring our community together and give families a chance to enjoy Halloween,” said Emily Yeatts, Campaign Director of Affordable Virginia. “Throughout the event, families told us they can’t believe how much everything costs, even Halloween. Parents are already stretching their budgets to cover groceries, gas, and the bills. It shouldn’t be controversial for Halloween to be affordable.”
