This Halloween, Evergreen Goodwill of Northwest Washington is spotlighting a growing seasonal trend: thrifting costumes and décor. The shift not only saves money but also helps reduce environmental waste and supports local communities.

Halloween is among the most waste-heavy holidays in the U.S., with thousands of tons of single-use costumes and decorations discarded each year. By shopping secondhand, consumers can extend the life of textiles and props while cutting down on landfill contributions.

Evergreen Goodwill emphasizes that thrifting also encourages creativity. Shoppers can build unique, personalized costumes by mixing vintage items, pre-owned pieces, and unexpected finds rather than relying on mass-produced, packaged looks. The result is a costume that feels distinct and memorable.

With rising costs and budget pressures in 2025, secondhand shopping also offers a practical solution. Affordable options at Evergreen Goodwill allow families to celebrate Halloween without overspending.

Beyond sustainability and affordability, proceeds from every purchase directly fund Evergreen Goodwill’s free job training, education, and career programs. These services provide resources such as digital literacy classes and vocational training to individuals facing barriers to employment.

Altogether, the combination of affordability, sustainability, and community impact positions Halloween thrifting as the top holiday trend of 2025. Shoppers can celebrate the season while making a lasting difference in their neighborhoods.

Norman Gidney is the founder and editor-in-chief of HorrorBuzz, which he launched in 2015 to cover everything that goes bump in the night: horror films, haunts, books, games, and the people who make them. He also runs The Screaming Room Film Festival and hosts the Horror Movie Night series at The Frida Cinema in Santa Ana, California.