Some of my fondest childhood memories include attending my aunt’s famous annual Halloween party. While this party was originally created for adults, as everyone began to have families with children, the activities were expanded and a kid friendly festival of candy and fun was born.

My aunt had a simple and smart plan for throwing these award worthy parties. Here are a few of her top tips to creating a bash that will have everyone asking for invites to next year’s party.

Decorations: Everyone can appreciate some good old-fashioned Halloween décor. The front yard of your home should be decked out. This will create excitement before anyone even comes into the party! You don’t have to spend a ton of money to get the scary look. My aunt has been doing this since the 1970’s before Halloween costume and decoration stores were commonplace. You can use cotton on the entrance way of your house to create spider webs. Large headstones can be made out of Styrofoam, cut into a headstone shape and spray painted.

Activities and Games: Create games that kids will love. You can create your own games or use some time-tested fun activities such as wacking a bat shaped piñata blind folded or bobbing for apples.

Costume Contest: Halloween Costume contests are popular at any Halloween party. But, for a kid’s party, you can sweeten up the contest. This is a fun task for a teenager to assist with. During the party, keep note of all the kids costume go-ers. Everyone should win a costume title based on their specific costume. For example, in addition to best costume, scariest costume, funniest costume, you can create prizes for furriest costume, most colorful costume etc.  The prizes can be treat bags (party favors) and everyone wins.

Parents are becoming more cautious of letting their kids trick or treat every year. Create a fun and safe environment on Halloween for your kids and their friends. A traditional costume party is the best way for kids to show off their kids costumes and to have a great and memorable Halloween.