Green Your Halloween Party

Halloween parties can be spooky and fun without being wasteful. It’s really a matter of thinking ahead.

Whether your parties are for kids or adults — here are some quick suggestions for adding a green tint to your autumn celebrations.

• If it’s a costume party, ask your guests to make their costumes. That will not only take away the pressure of having a perfect store-bought costume, but will bring more excitement and creativity to your gathering.

• Some suggestions for DIY Halloween costumes: Bat Costume (uses an old umbrella – shown), Pet Giveaway Box (must click to see) or Sarah Palin (especially if you’re Tina Fey).

• Don’t waste your pumpkin seeds! If you’re carving a jack-o-lantern, save the seeds to roast for your guests.

• Use natural decorations. Instead of an inflated pumpkin from Home Depot, use the real thing! You can always compost pumpkins later, and you won’t have to store them in your garage for a year. Other natural decorations include orange mums, fall leaves (make a wreath!) and hay if it’s an outdoor party.

• If you can’t use real dishes, use natural, biodegradable plates and utensils instead like EarthShell.

• Serve meatless dishes like Fried Yam Bat Sandwiches!

• Choose locally grown and organic food when possible. Make s’mores or other treats with organic chocolate! Yum.

• Make apple cider. Don’t buy soda or bottled water.

• Serve organic pumpkin ale. Recycle the bottles.

Are you planning a green Halloween party?

Pumpkin seed and bat images via flickr.

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