19 Halloween Decorations You Can DIY With Washi Tape

With Halloween drawing ever closer, it’s now or never to get your decorations and party supplies in order. If you pride yourself on your nifty crafting skills and want to save a pretty penny, consider this creative and budget-friendly idea to spruce up your space for the spooky holiday: washi tape! Use it to transform basic gift tags into mummified favor tags. Cut it into patterns for beautiful no-carve pumpkins. Step up traditional front door decorations with an impressive spiderweb display. Whether you’re preparing for a party or undertaking a haunted house makeover, check out these 19 creative washi tape ideas to inspire your own DIY.

1. DIY Mummy Gift Tags: Glam out basic gift tags by wrapping them in silver washi tape. They’re perfect for personalizing party favors or claiming wine glasses. (via White House Crafts)

2. DIY Halloween Cards: Send out Halloween party invitations with style. Simply cut out a spooky word or phrase in patterned washi tape and stick ’em onto blank cards. (via Omiyage Blogs)

3. DIY Halloween Washi Tape Feathers: Upgrade from everyday floral arrangements with these durable DIY feathers. All you need is washi tape, floral wire and scissors to create a super unique decoration. (via Ella and Annie)

4. DIY Washi Tape Drink Stirrers: Use assorted Halloween-patterned washi tape to create pennant flag drink stirrers. Replicate this party hack using toothpicks to make decorative toppers for your Halloween party food. (via Brit + Co)

5. DIY Washi Tape Halloween Mason Jars: These quick and easy monster jars are perfect for setting out utensils for a Halloween party. Use a black marker to draw on a spooky face. (via About a Mom)

6. DIY Cathrineholm Pumpkins: Inspired by mid-century enamelware from Cathrineholm, these no-carve jack-o’-lanterns are every bit as chic. Cut petal shapes out of black and orange washi tape and apply them to white pumpkins for Scandinavian style. (via Vitamini Handmade)

7. DIY Halloween Balloons With Black Electrical Tape: With this project, you won’t need to worry about your marker not being opaque enough for drawing onto balloons or getting Sharpie smears all over your palm. The original craft calls for cutting face shapes out of black electrical tape, but washi tape works just as well for these inflatable jack-o’-lanterns. (via Bird’s Party)

8. DIY Halloween Washi Magnet Clips: Transform your fridge into a Halloween art gallery with these DIY magnet clips. You can even skip the magnets and clip the clothespins onto string for an instant way to hang photos and other decor. (via Inside Bru Crew Life)

9. DIY Halloween Washi Tape Pumpkins: This dollar-store foam pumpkin gets quite the Halloween makeover without much effort. For a similar look on a real pumpkin, use chalk paint and washi tape. (via The Kolb Corner)

10. DIY Halloween Party Hats: Whether or not your friends decide to dress up for your soiree, they’ll definitely be in a festive mood when they get to your place and see these party hats. Stick to black, white and orange colors for a classic Halloween theme. (via DIY Network)

11. DIY Halloween Party Horns: Party horns are already a lot of fun. Make them even better by fancying them up with black, white and orange washi tape for that Halloween look. (via DIY Network)

12. DIY Halloween Goody Bags: Customize goody bags with pieces of washi tape laid out in wild strips and stripes. The imperfections will give your inexpensive cardstock bags a casually stylish air. (via Rosy Scription)

13. DIY Washi Tape Halloween Tic-Tac-Toe: Keep young party guests occupied with this classic game. Grab some washi tape and spider cutouts and you’ll have a Halloween-ready tic-tac-toe set in seconds! (via Crafts by Courtney)

14. DIY Spellbinding Pumpkins: Whip up this simple, chic fall centerpiece using mini pumpkins and black and orange decorations. Though the DIY calls for patterned ribbon, washi tape looks just as good, and you don’t need double-stick tape. (via Good Housekeeping)

15. DIY Washi Tape Spiderweb Front Door: Say goodbye to just adorning your front door with a predictable wreath. Use washi tape to create this unique front door display that’ll have all the trick-or-treaters oohing and aahing. (via Hometalk)

16. DIY Washi Tape + Printable Halloween Party Favors: Save money and time with these printable party favors. All you need to do is attach some dollar-store trinkets onto the white cardstock using patterned washi tape. (via A Pretty Cool Life)

17. DIY Halloween Party Invites With Washi Tape: No need for fancy graphics with this party hack. Jazz up your party invites with a Halloween-inspired bunting banner using patterned washi tape. (via Capitol Romance)

18. DIY Washi Tape Spiderweb: You only need one thing to create this impressive wall decal. You guessed it — washi tape! Duplicate this look by using black washi tape, or experiment with colorful patterns. (via Zakka Life)

19. Spiderweb Wall: For a little more dimension, add some spiders or even flies to your washi web decoration. The 3D touch will definitely make anyone’s skin *crawl.* (via Creative Juice)

How will you use washi tape to decorate for Halloween? Follow us on Pinterest for more creative DIY ideas!

Even if you love Halloween as much as the next gal, do you really want to keep shelling out $60 for a store-bought costume every year? Heck no! Whether you're a busy girl who doesn't have time to turn out a next-level costume or a lazy girl who just… can't even, we know that come October 30 you prob won't have anything in the pipeline. Don't panic, just get creative with what's already in your closet! Your squad will still be looking strong wherever you decide to spend fright night.

Olivia Rodrigo

Evoking by Olivia Rodrigo on her Sour album, this costume only requires you have a short plaid skirt, crop top, fall boots, and stickers for your face. (via Brit+Co)

Cassie from Euphoria

This costume is really all about the makeup. Cassie wears a lot of light blue, but you could probably make it work with your favorite form-fitting outfit along with glittery eye makeup. (via Brit+Co)

Marty McFly from Back to the Future

Go back to the future (and the '80s) with this Marty McFly costume that requires little more than jeans, a flannel shirt, a denim jacket, a vest, and — skateboard is optional, really. (via Brit+Co)

Harley Quinn from Suicide Squad

Yes, you can look good while being bad!Pull off this mod super villain look with stuff you can find in your closet. Wear a bomber jacket, ripped tee, and fishnet tights (don't act like you don't have them). Then put your hair in pigtails and pick up some pink and blue hair dye. (via Brit + Co)

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Audrey Hepburn

Channel your inner Holly Golightly and have Breakfast at Tiffany's this Halloween. All you'll need is a black dress, pearls, a tiara, and a long cigarette. Extra credit if you bring along your cat.

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Frida Kahlo

Kahlo might be best known for her signature unibrow, but her outfits and next-level color combos were also pretty fabulous. Pull off this look with a flower crown, floral fashion and funky earrings. Don't forget to pencil in the 'brow!

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Morton's Salt Girl

How cute is the famous girl on the salt shaker? You know, the one that's hiding in the back of your spice cabinet? To pull off her look, you'll need a yellow dress, white tights, salt and umbrella.

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Flight Attendant

Head out on the town or navigate the friendly skies? Whatever your plans are, you'll be ready in no time with this super easy costume! All you have to wear is a navy or red skirt, white blouse and printed scarf. Throw in a suitcase and wing pin if you're feeling fancy.

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Troll

How much did you love your Troll doll as a kid? Now you can dress up as a life-size one with stuff you probably already have around the house. How great is that? You'll just need any nude-colored clothing, a felt diamond you can cut, and any colorful wig.

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Lorelai Gilmore

Is it laundry day again? No worries, you'll be looking amazing as Lorelai Gilmore with this last-minute look. Just wear a pink tie dye tee, jean shorts, and a coat — they don't even need to match. Bring a coffee mug with you in case you need to make a late-night stop at Luke's.

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Netflix + Chill

Get your mind out of the gutter! You're just getting ready for an epic horror movie marathon, right? There are many interpretations of this costume, from lounging around with some popcorn to a bag of ice along with your Netflix shirt.

Party Animal

Ready to paint the town red? Get out there and party this Halloween, you crazy animal. Chances are you have a glitzy gown and any animal mask hanging around. So easy! (Photo via Brit + Co)

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White Rabbit from Alice in Wonderland

Head through the looking glass with this elevated Alice look. You'll need a red blazer, pocket watch or clock and a white dress. Throw on white shoes, a bowtie and bunny ears, if you have some.

Carmen Sandiego

Where in the world are you going to be this Halloween? Whether it's going on a crime spree in London or Lisbon, you'll be looking stylish. Dress up in a red trench coat, fedora, black boots, leather pants and leather gloves. (via Brit + Co)

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Amelie

Watching Amelie makes us have major French women #goals. For this easy costume, rock a cardigan, tank, and skirt or a red sweater with a black dress. Bring along a garden gnome or spoon for creme brûlée!

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Darla from Finding Nemo

Just imagining Darla around a fish tank gives us the heebie-jeebies. Her look is easy to pull off, though. Wear your hair in pigtails, wear a sweater or sweatshirt, use tube or wire for “headgear." Bring along a plastic bag with a plastic fish and water inside.

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Rosie the Riveter

Who run the world? Girls! Show everyone you mean business by dressing as Rosie the Riveter this year. Get to work in denim jeans, a denim shirt, boots and a bandana.

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Minnie Mouse

So what if you're a grown-up? You'll never stop loving Disney, like, ever. Show your love for Minnie Mouse with this adorable costume. You'll just need to scrounge up a red skirt, black top, white gloves, red bow and black shoes.

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Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz

We get it — a tornado came and blew away your Halloween costume and crushed a witch, too, right? Get back on the yellow brick road to Halloween fun as Dorothy. Wear any blue dress, white shirt, red shoes, braids and a picnic basket.

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Bank Robber

Freeze! And hand over all the candy. Steal hearts on Halloween with this bank robber costume. You'll just need black pants, a black and white striped shirt, water gun, mask and a black hat.

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Tweedle Dee/Tweedle Dum

Grab your best pal and go out together as Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum. Bonus points if you speak in rhyme the whole night. Wear red pants, suspenders, yellow shirts, blue bow ties and red hats.

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Wilson from Castaway

Tom Hanks was amazing in Castaway. But let's be real, Wilson was the real star of the show. Show up in a white T-shirt with a red handprint.

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Mario

It's you, Mario! And in five minutes, you're ready to power up! All you'll need is a rat hat, red shirt, overalls, and red Converse. Bonus points if you make a cardboard go-kart for some irl Mario Kart.

Where's Waldo

Everyone will be able to find you in a crowd. This Waldo outfit really stands out! You'll need jeans, a red and white striped shirt, glasses and red or striped beanie. (via Brit + Co)

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Aunt Flo

Wait, who invited Aunt Flo to the party? This might be the easiest costume of all time. And possibly the grossest or funniest, depending on your POV. Wear a red hat, red glasses, red dress, red gloves and bring your suitcase.

Mary Poppins

Everyone's favorite nanny made even medicine taste better with a spoonful of sugar. This look is great for a last-minute get together. A white dress with a red belt and some red bows is one option, or you can wear a dark skirt, white top, red bowtie and hat. Either way, don't forget your umbrella! (via Brit + Co)

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Taylor Swift

Keep on celebrating the Fearless (Taylor's Version) era with one of her most iconic and easiest music video looks. All you need is a white tee and some sharpies!

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Sadness

Feeling a little blue about not having a Halloween costume? Just go as Sadness from Inside Out. You'll only need blue pants, a gray turtleneck, glasses, blue hair spray and blue makeup.

Eleven from Stranger Things

Everyone and their mother is anticipating the new season of Stranger Things. Dress up as Eleven and show off your psychic skills while you wait. You'll need a pink dress, knee-high socks, blue coat, Eggo waffles and a fake bloody nose. (via Brit + Co)

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Flo from Progressive Insurance

You probably know Flo from all the Progressive commercials. Offer everyone the best rates on candy or booze. You'll need an all-white outfit, Progressive logo, apron and “Flo" name tag.

Dancing Emoji Dolls

Grab a pal for this last-minute look that couldn't be any easier. You'll both need black leotards, black dance shoes, nude tights and black headbands with ears. Get ready to pose for lots of snaps. (via Brit + Co)

Sushi

Your Halloween night will be on a roll if you show up as sushi. If you're not feeling a DIY, just add a colored pillow, belt, and chopsticks to an all-white outfit. Pro tip: Try not to spill any soy sauce on yourself. (via Brit + Co)

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Grapes

Don't wine about not having a costume. You'll be the opposite of sour grapes with this fun, fruity look. To pull it off, you'll need purple balloons safety pinned onto an all purple outfit.

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Birthday Cake

Your friends will love this look as much as any kid loves cake. It does require a bit of DIY: You'll need birthday candles glued onto a headband. Then go for an all white or pink outfit.

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Little Red Riding Hood

Forget the fairy tale. Red Riding Hood can be a downright sexy costume choice. To pull it off, you'll need a black dress, red cape and a picnic basket.

Looking for more easy Halloween costume ideas? Follow us on Pinterest and subscribe to our email newsletter!

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One detail that the covers of the new books coming in May have in common are shades of pink, blue, and green — perfect summer colors. You'll find your classic rom-com books, but there's also a little devious behavior and a touch of magic to look forward to. But, don't just take my word for it. Let your imagination get lost in our top 11 new books coming in May!

Mistakes We Never Made by Hannah Brown (May 7)

Emma Townsend and Finn Hughes are involved in a classic cat and mouse situationship that's turned incredibly sour. They went from inching their way towards several romantic turning points to deciding they actually don't like each other anymore. One can assume their hearts got tired of being shown that almost doesn't count.

However, they have to put on their adult undies to get through a wedding weekend where everyone's expected to be on their best behavior because of the joyous moment at hand. It sounds too good to be true and the pair quickly realizes it is when the bride-to-be vanishes.

Forced to race against an invisible winding clock, Emma and Finn embark on a momentous journey to figure out if this wedding can actually be saved. Somewhere along the lines, they begin to remember what it was like when their undeniable attraction towards each other led to much more. Maybe a weird wedding mystery is just the thing they needed to prove that it's time to make things official.

The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley (May 7)

The Ministry of Time is a the modern time travel book you didn't know you needed to read until now. It shines a light on a young woman — aka the "bridge" — who's new job comes with a hefty salary and more responsibility than she considered. She's meant to help an expat called "1847," or Commander Graham Gore, adjust to living in a modern world when all he remembers is what it was like to live in the 1840s.

The more 1847 adjusts to life around him with other expats and this young woman whose so different than what he's used to, the more the bridge crosses the lines and allows herself to become immersed in his world beyond what her profession calls for.

This isn't without consequences and it's up to the bridge to decide what it really means to live in the future.

The Five Year Lie by Sarina Bowen (May 7)

Ariel Cafferty was head over heels in love with a man she thought she knew until it feels like he ghosted her without an explanation. She thought she was beginning to move on, but a vague text from him (Drew) years later brings back emotions she's tried to forget.

Suddenly Ariel begins to piece together clues that something is seriously wrong. Not only that, she can't shake the feeling that the truth is still being kept from her. In order to possibly save her and her son's life, she'll have to work to understand what happened to Drew and how far the mystery surrounding his disappearance actually goes.

Alternate Endings by Ali Rosen (May 7)

Alternate Endings is one of the new books releasing in May that I immediately connected to because I can relate to some aspects of Beatrice Leal's life. She's a working mother who's as dedicated to her son as she is to her job, but the only difference between us is that she's dealing with a tough divorce. To make it even more complicated, her boss also gets divorced and decides she wants to live in Ireland full-time.

This means she's requiring the team — including Bea — to be there twice a month and this throws a huge monkey wrench in the custody plans she and her ex-husband Lucas have half-heartedly agreed on. Still, Bea loves her job and reluctantly makes the first trip to Ireland where she meets the new CTO at her job — the sexy Jack Sander who ghosted her while they were in high school.

Despite the two decades that have passed since they've seen each other, there's no denying that the two still have electric energy that they acknowledge during one of their trips to Ireland. But as time passes, the lie they keep telling themselves gives way to something more and Bea finds that she may just have to change her approach to everything in life — especially when it comes to love.

The Paradise Problem by Christine Lauren (May 14)

Is it obvious that my favorite new books I've read involve some form of love? Besides this amazing cover that caught my eye, The Paradise Problem offers a completely new approach to being married that I've seen in a book.

Anna Green is impulsive and makes decisions solely so she survive from day to day. It's the main reason she married Liam "West" Weston when she needed a place to stay. It was supposed to be a marriage of convenience between two strangers. So when she doesn't bother looking at the "divorce" papers he had her sign and is surprised to find out they're still married when he visits her years later, Anna's more than flustered.

See, West is set to inherit a large fortune attached to his family's name and has to prove that he's been enjoying married life with his wife Anna. The problem is that they don't really know anything about each other and his family is demanding to see her.

With no other choice, West convinces Anna to keep up the married act and prays she'll be able to impress his family. However, he begins to realize that maybe he's had it wrong all along. Maybe he's supposed to fall in love with this feisty, art-loving, impulsive woman that's stealing his heart. Maybe he's supposed to protect hers.

Lovers and Liars by Amanda Eyre Ward (May 14)

The Peacock sisters aren't as close as they used to be and they have time and a lot of heartache to blame for that. Of course, there's always the roles they played in the fallout of their familial relationship.

Sylvie Peacock finds herself facing marriage again after being widowed and she thinks it might be time to move on. Cleo Peacock is the successful sister who can do no wrong and has the cushy lifestyle to prove it. So when her sister Sylvie falls for the charming Simon Rampling, her criminal defense intuition starts ringing. And Emma Peacock? Well, she's hiding secrets that's turned her into a woman who lets silence lead her. At the center of the sisters is their less than stellar mother who's domineering presence makes it clear these sisters have cowered in her presence for far too long.

One weekend will change everything for the Peacock family and nothing will be the same. — good or bad.

The Honey Witch by Sydney J. Shields (May 14)

Marigold Claude is ever popular with the many men who want to court her, but she couldn't care less. Her freedom lies in the nature and she gladly revels in it. Things seem to get even better when her grandmother feels she's worthy to become a Honey Witch. But, she can never fall in love.

Deciding she's okay with this rule, she carries on merrily until she meets Lottie Burke, someone who doesn't think magic exists. Intending to prove Lottie wrong, Marigold starts doing things out that feel out of character for her. Soon, something must darker presents itself and Marigold finds that she may have to break multiple rules just to save what she cares about.

One Perfect Couple by Ruth Ware (May 21)

Lyla is experiencing one bad situation after the another. From research that's gone awry to a relationship that's gotten off track, she feels like she's almost at the end of her rope. Suddenly it seems like her prayers are answered when she and Nico are given a chance to be on the TV show One Perfect Couple to win a grand prize that could help them out financially.

They're pit against four other couples and being to sense that something is horribly wrong when disaster strikes the minute they set foot on the deserted island where they're meant to compete. One Perfect Couple becomes more than a reality show and involves whether people can actually survive or not.

Goddess of the River by Vaishnavi Patel (May 21)

Ganga went from being a carefree goddess of the river to a mortal after she failed to control the godlings near her. With no other choice, she decides to become a queen after marrying King Shantanu so she can prove that she's worth of being a goddess again. While she is granted freedom, she can't bring the son she bore in her human form with her.

Once Prince Devavrata gets older and decides he doesn't want to take his father's place, he finds himself on a journey that puts him lock and step with his mother Ganga.

Swiped by L.M. Chilton (May 21)

What would you do if all of your dates from Tinder, Hinge, or Bumble ended up dead after you'd last seen them? Swiped helps Gwen Turner answer that very question when she's thrown into the wildest predicament of her life.

First thing's first — she's in a terrible rut and can't figure out how to put the pieces of her life back together again. She feels hopeless in the romantic department and has to contend with the fact that maybe leaving a great job to serve coffee might not have been the smartest decision.

So, she decides to download a dating app and goes on a series of dates that leave her more confused than ever. To make matters worse, they begin to turn up dead after she's been the last person to go on a date with them. This doesn't bode well with the police and she soon finds herself being carefully watched.

The more frequently things begin to happen, the more Gwen rushes to figure out who the date killer is. As she gets closer to finding out the truth, she'll find that she also has to contend with a dark secret that she thought no one else knew about.

I Hope This Finds You Well by Natalie Sue (May 21)

Not to be confused with Dolly Parton's "Jolene," I Hope This Finds You Well's main character of the same name finds herself in a work bind when HR sentences her to "sensitivity training." Her crime? Being exposed for sharing her negative opinions about co-workers. Restricted from certain interactions, Jolene decides to do whatever it takes to get through her training period.

So when an IT plunder allows her to see what everyone else has been privately talking about, Jolene feels conflicted about whether to report them or not. She even discovers that potential layoffs are about to affect her job so she does everything she can to make sure her role is secured.

Soon she'll have to decide what's more important: her job or the truth.

Which of the best new books coming in May are you looking forward to reading? Be sure to check out our storefront for even more reading recs!

Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

Lead images via Amazon

When it comes to the fall and winter holidays, Halloween is the official kickoff, and for good reason. Between the spooky cocktails and the awesome group costumes, there are countless ways to enjoy partying with your friends and family. But any truly amazing shindig needs food first: appetizers, meals, treats, and desserts. Whether you're making sweets or are into the savory kind of scary snack, here are 25 Halloween treats that will delight the real kids and the inner children in all of us.

Cyclops Cupcakes

Make these in mini muffin pans to enjoy a sweet dessert. (via Brit + Co)

Healthy Pumpkin Smoothies

Start your day with a pumpkin smoothie that has just the right amount of sweetness to give you a boost in the morning. (via Brit + Co)

Deviled Egg Brains

No matter what other fancy treats you serve at your party, people go wild for the deviled eggs every time. They're somehow even *more* irresistible when dressed up as brains. (via Brit + Co)

Pumpkin Spice Churro Milkshakes

You won't even think about Halloween candy when you have a decadent pumpkin spice milkshake to sip on instead. (via Brit + Co)

Million-Layer Pumpkin Crepe Cake

Is it breakfast or dessert? We say both! (via Brit + Co)

Mini Vegan Pumpkin Pie

There's nothing spookier than not having something yummy to serve your vegan guests. Avoid that horror show by making a batch of mini pumpkin pies. (via Brit + Co)

No-Bake Pumpkin Ice Cream Tart With Speculoos Crust

You'll only need one grocery store trip for this no-bake pumpkin treat. Shhhh… We promise not to tell if you simply can't share. (via Brit + Co)

Monster Sushi

If your kids are freaked out at the thought of eating raw fish... all the better. It's Halloween, after all! (via Brit + Co)

Pumpkin Samoas

The only thing scary about these pumpkin, caramel, and coconut cookies is how fast you'll be able to inhale the whole batch. (via Brit + Co)

Pumpkin Pie Ice Cream

Pumpkin pie ice cream makes one heck of an a la mode. (via Brit + Co)

Monster Avocado Toasts

Savory avocado toast, jazzed up with nori and other garnishes, is a tasty counterpoint to all that sugar. (via Brit + Co)

One Pot Cheesy Pumpkin Pecan Pasta

Keep away that October chill by serving up a hearty dish of creamy pumpkin pasta before heading out to beg for candy. (via Brit + Co)

Pumpkin Seed Puppy Chow

A party isn't a party without puppy chow. Make yours seasonal with pumpkin pie spice. (via Brit + Co)

Mummy Pizzas

Fresh ciabatta bread is the base for these easily customizable pizzas. The zucchini bandages are healthy *and* terrifying. (via Brit + Co)

Creamy Pumpkin Apple Quesadillas

Both sweet and savory, crispy quesadillas stuffed with cheese, apples, and pumpkin work well as a snack, appetizer, light lunch, or post-trick-or-treating revival meal. (via Love and Zest)

Fish Stick Mummies

Fish sticks and cheddar cheese are a convincingly spooky, mummified snack. (via Cutefetti)

Monster Candy Bark

If you find yourself with extra candy, melt it all down for this no-rules candy bark. Chill in the refrigerator until hard and break into bite-sized pieces. (via Fork and Beans)

Freaky Healthy Halloween Salad

No one will mind if you're that person who brings a salad to the party. The little heads of cauliflower kind of look like brains, and the syringe dressing is a clever themed accessory. (via Boulder Locavore)

Halloween Eyeball Sub

Radishes and olive slices make eerily convincing edible eyeballs. Serve on jumbo hoagie rolls for dinner, or swap those for slider buns and serve them up at your next party. (via Kitchen Sanctuary)

Halloween Snack Platter

Make the items on this platter ahead of time, then set it out for everyone to nosh on. You'll be able to spend time with the fam instead of in the kitchen getting food ready. (via Foxes Love Lemons)

Little Potato Monster Eyeballs

Who knew something that looks like bulging monster eyeballs could also taste so good? (via Noshing With the Nolands)

Pumpkin Pie Dip

Cheesecake filling and canned pumpkin are the main ingredients for this seasonal snack. Serve it up with graham crackers or some cinnamon sugar pita chips. (via Cooking Classy)

Monster Bell Pepper Salad Cups

Turning your salad into a bona fide spook-fest is the only way you'll get your kids (or yourself) to eat veggies at Halloween when there's a bunch of candy lying around. (via Fork and Beans)

Mummy Calzones

If you're a Leslie Knope, you might be satisfied with a mummy pizza on Halloween. But if you're more of a Ben Wyatt type, you know that nothing but a calzone will do. (via Frugal MomEh!)

Pumpkin Spice Chocolate Chip Blondies

The best thing about blondies, aside from them being blondies? You can cut them into any size. Make adorable bite-sized versions to feed a crowd at your Halloween party. (via The Healthy Maven)

Wow your guests with more of our Halloween hacks on our Pinterest page.

Additional reporting by Irina Gonzalez


We're thrilled to kick off our new Jetset Journeys series, where we turn the best U.S. cities to explore this year into our own personal playgrounds. This is not just a travel guide but a way to spark your creativity and your wanderlust for weekend and week-long travel. Pack your bags , join us here every week, and get jetsetty this summer.

A getaway is always a good idea, especially when you can do it with your best friends. Traveling with friends is a fantastic way to bond, create memories, and explore new destinations together. Seeking adventure, relaxation, culture, or nightlife? We've got you. These U.S. cities offer the perfect setting for an unforgettable trip no matter what your travel goals. Whether you're celebrating a milestone birthday, upcoming nuptials, or an annual gathering of remote friends, look no further than these cities in the U.S.

New York City

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In the words of Taylor Swift, “It's been waitin' for you!” New York City is a destination for the arts, nightlife, shopping and foodies, so there is an abundance of options for you and your crew to do, see and eat. Book a hotel, there is no shortage of them — but the PUBLIC Hotel, The Standard, High Line or Moxy NYC Chelsea are great ones — and hit the ground running.

Photo: Cynthia Ortega Espinosa

Frolic in Central Park, wander the Metropolitan Museum of Art, cycle along the Hudson River Greenway or window shop on Fifth Avenue. Theater fans will want to see what shows are playing on Broadway or queue for Marie’s Crisis, where you can belt out showtunes in the West Village.

Photo: Pastis

While in an empire state of mind, you’ll obviously want to wine and dine. The Nines, The Happiest Hour, The Blond, Oscar Wilde, the Broken Shaker and Nubeluz are among spots that should be on your list for drinks, along with the seasonal bar Grand Banks, which is a summer must. Satisfy your stomach with meals at Emilio's Ballato, Café Chelsea and Pastis, or if you need a quick bite, then a slice of Joe's Pizza or taco from Los Tacos No. 1 are just the ticket.

Photo: Jeffrey Czum

Depending on what time of year you’re planning to visit New York, you can check out different markets like the Bryant Park Winter Village during the holidays, or Smorgasburg during the warmer months. No matter the season, the Big Apple is ripe and waiting for you to take a bite out of it with your BFFs!

Miami-Ft. Lauderdale

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Sunshine and good times await in South Florida. Apart from the obvious beaches and clubs, the cultural melting pot offers an arts and diverse food scene. But for visitors looking to soak up rays and read while listening to the waves, the Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach and The Goodtime Hotel are both within walking distance to North Beach and South Beach, respectively.

Photo: EAST Miami

Of course, the nightlife isn't limited to just Miami Beach. Book a room at EAST Miami, home to Sugar rooftop, where you’ll be in the center of bustling Brickell near hot spots like Sexy Fish and Gekkō. Or stay in Coconut Grove at the Mayfair House Hotel & Garden, which is close to a variety of shops, restaurants and bars, including Regatta Grove.

Photo: Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau

Regardless of where you decide to rest your head at night, no BFF trip to Miami should be complete without a visit to Wynwood and Design District. Visit the galleries and snap pictures for the ‘gram in Wynwood and don’t forget to swing by Fireman Derek's Bake Shop for a sweet treat, before heading to Design District for shopping and later dinner at Mandolin Aegean Bistro — a Greek restaurant that’ll have you feeling like you’re in Mamma Mia!.

Photo: Little Hen

If brunch is on the itinerary, look no further than the Little Hen in Midtown Miami. With its Instagram-worthy decor, drinks and dishes, it’s one of the cutest spots to brunch at. Just note, you’ll want to make a reservation and adhere to the restaurant's “smart chic dress code.”

Photo by Irasema McAllister

While in the area, you can mosey on over to Lagniappe, a jazz club and wine garden that has live music every night.

Phoenix, AZ

Photo: Mike Glezos

If wellness or adventure is your journey, then Phoenix is the destination. Gather your spa-loving, adventurous or golf-playing crew and travel to the urban oasis in the Sonoran Desert.

Seeking an escape to nature? Go hiking at Pinnacle Peak Park, Papago Park, Usery Mountain Regional Park or Camelback Mountain. There’s also horseback riding in the Sonoran Desert. Cave Creek Trail Rides, established in 1999, offers guided trail rides, giving you a “true western experience!”

Photo:Tierra Luna Spa at Arizona Biltmore Resort

After being outdoors, retreat inside and unwind with a spa treatment. There are a number of spa resorts in the area, including the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Arizona Biltmore Resort, Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale, the Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia and the Royal Palms Resort and Spa, to name a few.

Golf buddies in Phoenix will find multiple courses to practice their swings. The city owns and operates five 18-hole championship courses and three nine-hole courses. Pending when you’re in town, fairway fans can try to score tickets to tournaments like the PGA TOUR Champions' Charles Schwab Cup Championship, or the PGA TOUR’s WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale in Scottsdale.

Photo: Virtu Honest Craft

All the activity and, hey, even relaxation can make you work up an appetite. Satiate it at James Beard Award-winning Virtu Honest Craft, The Arrogant Butcher, Different Pointe of View and Vincent on Camelback.

Dallas-Ft. Worth

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They say everything is bigger in Texas, so get ready for some Texas-sized fun. Between the shopping and the restaurants, there are plenty of reasons for you and your pals to pack your bags and flock to the Lone Star State. The Fairmont Dallas and the Thompson Dallas hotels are both in the heart of downtown, close to the Dallas Museum of Art for art lovers, and near the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza and the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza for the history buffs.

Photo: Elizabeth ChambersBIRD Bakery

South of downtown you and your crew can explore the Bishop Arts District, an “eclectic neighborhood” with restaurants and shops. You can also engage in retail therapy at the Galleria Dallas and Highland Park Village, both of which are premier shopping destinations.The latter is also home to Elizabeth ChambersBIRD Bakery, a must for anyone with a sweet tooth–be sure to order a “southern red velvet” cupcake!

Photo: Sundown at Granada

Craving something savory? Head on over to Las Palmas Tex-Mex for Mexican cuisine, Pecan Lodge for BBQ or the farm-to-table restaurant Sundown at Granada. End your nights at the cozy cocktail bar Parliament or drop by the Midnight Rambler, a cocktail lounge inside of the Joule Hotel.

In need of a little R&R? You and your pals can splurge on a stay at Bowie House in Fort Worth. The luxury hotel is described as an “imaginative and bold urban retreat, where cowboys and cattle once roamed.” Indulge in self-care at the hotel’s full service spa, said to be inspired by the outdoors, or book one of the available experiences.

So, saddle up and plan your trip to Texas.

San Francisco

Photo: Juan Salamanca:

Turn your California dreaming into a reality! From nature to tech and a slew of attractions, the Bay Area has plenty to offer you and your BFFs, especially those who know and love Full House.

The InterContinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco is a historic hotel in the neighborhood of Nob Hill. Renting a car will make it easier to get around and check out sites like the Golden Gate Bridge, the "Painted Ladies" at Alamo Square (channel the Tanners, anyone?), Chinatown and Twin Peaks. Given the city’s proximity to wine country, you can also road trip to Napa for a day to visit wineries and enjoy a meal at the charming Acacia House.

Photo by Mylo Kaye

Back in SF, you and your friends can pay a visit to the famous Fisherman's Wharf, where you’ll find Ghirardelli Square and PIER 39. Take a ferry to Alcatraz (the tour is actually fascinating) or Sausalito for waterside lunch at Bar Bocce, where you can join other guests in a game of bocce while you wait for your delicious pizzas and salads.

Grab your besties for a coastal hike along Land's End Trail for breathtaking views of the Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. Start at the old Cliff House and spot the famous Sutro Baths and end at the Palace of Legion of Honor. Or, reserve your spot at Muir Woods for an amazing hike through the redwoods.

Photo: b. patisserie

Grab breakfast or lunch at the James Beard Award-winning b. patisserie, or one of the best rooftop bars in the city Kaiyo for Peruvian bites.

Photo: Kaiyo

The San Francisco Playhouse is a great night out to the theatre with pals, or Cobb's Comedy Club for big laughs. With friends by your side, you’re sure to feel golden in the Golden State.

Main photo: Photo by KoolShooters

Follow along for all your travel needs with our Flights of Fancy series and Jetset Journeys series.


At this point in my life, I have what could be considered an encyclopedic knowledge ofGilmore Girls. I can discuss plot points, TV moments, and The Battle Of Rory's Boyfriends to academic extents — but there is always more to talk about! If you've also got Gilmore Girls on the brain, then keep scrolling for some of your top Gilmore Girls questions, answered.

Why is season 7 of Gilmore Girls so different?

Image via Saeed Adyani/Netflix

Gilmore Girls season 7 has a different tone to the rest of the show for one simple reason: creators and writers Dan & Amy Sherman-Palladino weren't involved in the production of the show. They were so heavily involved in previous seasons that it makes sense their absence would be felt!

What happens at the end of Gilmore Girls: A Year In The Life?

Image via Saeed Adyani/Netflix

After we said goodbye to Rory, Lorelai, and the rest of Stars Hollow, Netflix's Gilmore Girls: A Year In The Life allowed us to see all our favorite characters again — and then shocked us with its final four words. In a full circle moment, the show ends with Lorelai and Rory sitting on the steps of the town gazebo with their coffees before Rory asks, "Mom?" "Yeah," Lorelai says. "I'm pregnant."

Is there going to be a season 2 of Gilmore Girls: A Year in a Life?

Image via Netflix

While there hasn't been an official confirmation for Gilmore Girls: A Year in a Life season 2, fans and cast members alike are hoping we'll return to Stars Hollow again. "If that came up again, I love that character so much and I love Amy," Lauren Graham tells Collider. "I will work with her, any time. It would just be a matter of responsibility to the fans and what we could give them that's deserving of their devotion."

Where can I rewatch Gilmore Girls?

Image via Netflix

You can stream Gilmore Girls on Netflix now. That means you can rewatch the show from the comfort of your own home (or bed), which is perfect!

Who did Lorelai Gilmore end up with?

Image via Robert Voets/Netflix

After years of feeling torn between Rory's father Christopher and her best friend Luke, Lorelai ended Gilmore Girls in a relationship with Luke. But if you ask me, the most important relationship is the one between Lorelai and Rory, which is still going strong by the end of the series!

What happened to Emily Gilmore?

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While Emily Gilmore seems a little intimidating at the beginning of the series, she definitely has a heart of gold. When A Year In The Life opens, we learn her husband Richard has passed away, and Emily balances healing from her grief while also exploring the independence she's never had before.

Where can I buy Gilmore Girls gifts?

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Whether you're hunting for a white cable knit sweater like Rory's iconic pullover or you're headed to the bookstore to try her reading list for yourself, you can find Gilmore Girls gifts everywhere from the Hallmark store to Amazon.

Where is the Gilmore Girls cast now?

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The cast of Gilmore Girls has been busy since the show wrapped! You can see Chad Michael Murray and Scott Patterson on Sullivan's Crossing, while Lauren Graham recently published Have I Told You This Already? Alexis Bledel is in talks to star in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 3, while Milo Ventimiglia just got married! I love seeing this cast thrive.

Why is Gilmore Girls season 5 controversial?

Image via Neil Jacobs/Netflix

If there's one Gilmore Girls season that's gone down in infamy, it's Gilmore Girls season 5. There are a few (very controversial) reasons it strikes a cord with fans, including but not limited to, Rory dating a recently divorced Deanafter their affair in season 4, stealing a yacht with Logan, and deciding to drop out of Yale. This sounds like a quarter-life crisis if I've ever seen one.

Who is the father of Rory's baby?

Image via Saeed Adyani/Netflix

Gilmore Girlsleft us on a huge cliffhanger when Rory Gilmore revealed she was pregnant, and thanks to costume supervisor Valerie Campbell, we know that the father of Rory's baby is her college boyfriend Logan Huntzberger.

Where is Stars Hollow located in real life?

Featured image via Taryn Elliott/Pexels.

You can visit Stars Hollow IRL by taking a trip to Washington, Connecticut. The town made Amy Sherman-Palladino feel so at home that she used it as inspo for Gilmore Girls!

Does Lane Kim have a baby?

Image via Neil Jacobs/Netflix

Yes, Lane ends up having twins by the end of Gilmore Girls. Amy Sherman-Palladino actually revealed this was a plot point she didn't like from Gilmore Girls season 7. "I would’ve preferred that Lane not have kids, only because it would’ve given us more options," she tells TV Line. "The one thing you couldn’t do with Lane and Zack is have them be sh—tty parents. So them having kids sort of dictated them still living in Stars Hollow. It changed things ever so slightly. They’re still rock and rollers. They’re still the cool parents."

Did Paris Geller attend Harvard?

Image via Neil Jacobs/Netflix

No, Paris Geller did not get into Harvard, which is a plot point that still divides fans. After all, Paris was brilliant, why wouldn't she have gotten in?! Paris and Rory both went to Yale, and actually ended up rooming together.

What happened to Rory Gilmore?

Image via Saeed Adyani/Netflix

By the time we see Rory Gilmore in Gilmore Girls: A Year In The Life, she's become a freelance journalist who travels around the world for work. After some encouragement from Jess, Rory also ends up writing a book about her life with Lorelai, titled Gilmore Girls.

Who was Rory Gilmore's best boyfriend?

Image via Netflix

This is the age-old question that will divide Gilmore Girls fans for the rest of time!! While everyone has a different answer (Logan! Jess! Dean! Actually..who picks Dean?), Matt Czuchry himself recently revealed that he thinks there's NO right answer. “I think [all three of Rory Gilmore's boyfriends have] strengths and weaknesses, like we all do,” he says on The Talk. “And I think that the fun of the show is that you’ve got these characters who are flawed and had these great pieces and everybody debates who’s best for Rory because they feel different about their strengths and weaknesses that might match up.”

What's your favorite season of Gilmore Girls? I'm a tried and true season 3 fan (because of Jess, of course), but I will always rewatch the pilot before I watch anything else. Follow us on Facebook for more pop culture news!

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