I heard or read a couple of things this week that really have me scratching my head. The numbers left me really wondering where the priorities of people in this country may be. Did you know the estimates for Halloween spending this year are in the area of $7,400,000,000 ( yes, 7.4 BILLON DOLLARS) this year? Unbelievable and I have asked myself over and over, really?, on Halloween?
I am never sure where they get these numbers, but they are likely tied back to the amount that was spent last year. It would not seem as if they would be estimating the totals from actual consumer input because I think most people would not be honest if they spent a huge amount on Halloween expenses. When you look at 315 million people live in this country, that equates to about $23+ per man, woman, boy, or girl.
The $7.4 billion estimate included things like:
- Halloween Decor – $2 billion
- Halloween Candy – $2.2 billion
- Children’s Costumes – $1.1 billion
- Adult Costumes – $1.4 billion
- PET Costumes – $350,000,000
If I heard correctly, the number(s) comes from the National Retail Federation. Regardless, it is mind boggling!
Now keep in mind, this is the same country that has been struggling to come out of one its worst recessions in history. Foreclosures and bankruptcies at all time highs. People feeling like they can not get ahead.
What was that definition of “insanity”?
How much are you spending on Halloween this year? What advise can you give to others? Leave a comment below.
We will be spending the following:
$15 costume
$0 recycled costume
$10 candy to pass out
$25 total for 4 people (well below national average)
Sounds like a family with a plan!
$0
How’s that?
Gotta love grandma’s!