The Big Business Of Halloween In America [Infographic]

Tonight, a funny thing will happen in neighborhoods all over the country: pint-sized ninjas, cowboys, ghosts, and princesses will all be seen hanging out together in the twilight, knocking on doors. Surprisingly, the residents within will not phone the police.

Instead, they will reward these motley crews with enough candy and treats to keep them bouncing off the walls late into the night. But there’s something decidedly un-cute about this holiday lurking under the surface: massive spending and waste.

According to economic experts, the average American (that’s individuals, not families) will spend over $70 on Halloween decorations, costumes, and candy this year. And that translates into big bucks for the corporations who make all this flimsy stuff.

(click through to enlarge)

In a time when the American economy is on the verge of a shut-down, families have been foreclosed on, and millions are still looking for work, this seems like an awfully frivolous way to spend our money, doesn’t it?

Halloween, like all holidays, should be a time for spending some with friends…and that doesn’t have to cost a thing. Check out these clever Care2 posts for having a safe, happy, and shareable Halloween.

10 DIY Ways To Have A Waste-Free Halloween

The Green Halloween Guide

10 Halloween Pranks That Don’t Damage Property

Real Halloween Treats, Not Sugary Tricks

How Halloween Can Fight Hunger

Give Used Halloween Candy Wrappers A Second Life

13 Halloween Sugar Substitutes

Top Image Credit: Flickr - daveynin
Infographic via Business Credit Cards Blog

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of
Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.

Bill and Katie D.

8:01AM PDT on Nov 1, 2012

We are not the average consumer here, don't do near this!
There are ways to have fun without spending all this!
We've had times a cookie was a treat!
or just a apple. some People have ruined this!
Thank you foir the Information!