Brits Expected To Spend Millions On Halloween Despite Mixed Feelings
October 25, 2024 1:00 AM ‐ Halloween
Photo: pixabay.com
Halloween has carved out a place in the UK calendar, but its popularity remains a bit divided. While more people than ever are embracing the spooky season with costumes, treats, and decorations, actual participation is still modest compared to some other seasonal events.
According to data from YouGov, Halloween is viewed positively, with 53% of British adults agreeing it's "a fun event for kids," but only around 23% say they'll actively take part in any celebrations this October.
For most UK households, Halloween spending centres around providing a fun night for children. Many will buy sweets for trick-or-treaters, costumes for kids, and the occasional pumpkin for carving. Around 4% of adults say they'll be out trick-or-treating with children, while 7% plan to dress up their kids, and 6% are willing to join in by dressing up themselves. Carving a pumpkin remains a solid tradition, with 8% of adults ready to get creative with the classic jack-o'-lantern.
Though Halloween has gained popularity, a significant portion of Brits still view it as an "unwelcome American cultural import," with 45% in agreement. And when it comes to trick-or-treating, the nation is somewhat split: 70% of adults prefer not to have children knocking on their doors, while only 23% are open to welcoming costumed visitors.
The response to other Halloween traditions is also tepid. Playing pranks, dressing up, and trick-or-treating are all viewed as "bad ideas" by the majority. Even horror movies divide opinion, with more adults leaning against watching them (43%) than for them (39%).
For younger generations, though, Halloween is far more enticing. Around 40% of 18-24 year-olds and 31% of 25-40 year-olds plan to celebrate, making them the main demographic pushing Halloween's popularity. Meanwhile, older generations are more likely to skip the festivities altogether, reflecting the holiday's slow but steady integration into British culture.
By contrast, Halloween in the United States is celebrated by nearly 60% of the population, where it's a major holiday for all ages. Some historians believe Halloween traditions may have historically shifted to Bonfire Night in the UK, with customs like fire lighting and seasonal treats transferred to November 5th, leaving Halloween's place in the British calendar relatively recent by comparison.
With Bonfire Night just days after Halloween, some families are gearing up for both occasions. Bonfire Night remains an important British tradition, celebrated with fireworks and gatherings, though some safety-conscious Brits prefer to leave the fireworks to organised displays. Yet Halloween seems to be gaining ground, capturing the imaginations of children and younger adults alike. As the spooky season grows, it will be interesting to see if Halloween continues to capture more of the autumn calendar and, perhaps, warm up even the more sceptical among us.
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