HONOLULU (KHON2) — Halloween in 2025 is not about repeating the same old ideas. The most popular party themes this year bring style, surprise and fresh ways to celebrate that kind of turn the holiday on its head.
From romantic darkness to neon brightness, these themes show how creative hosts can be; and they help your guests figure out what they want to be.
Each one balances decoration with atmosphere and turns an ordinary gathering into something memorable.
So, KHON2.com did a deep dive to go through all the popular themes that popping up this season, and these are the ones we liked most.
1. Whimsigoth and gothic romantic
This theme mixes velvet, lace and antique décor. The focus is on elegance more than fright. Dark colors such as black, purple and deep red set the mood. Candlelight, vintage mirrors and dried flowers add layers of mystery. Invitations written in calligraphy give the event an old world style.
Encourage your guests to lean into the theme and dress as their favorite gothic monsters and characters.
2. Pinkoween and benign glam spooky
Pastels and sparkle join pumpkins and ghosts in this look. The style is more cute than creepy and it photographs well. Decorations use soft pinks, metallics, glitter and fairy lights. Candy stations and blush painted pumpkins keep the mood lighthearted.
Remind your guests that costumes lean more toward the whimsical rather than frightening.
3. Twisted carnival and dark circus
The circus theme returns with a sinister spin. Striped tents, creepy clowns and carnival games altered to be frightening provide energy. Food such as popcorn and cotton candy is served with a dramatic flair, and lighting in bold colors creates strong shadows to keep guests unsettled.
Carnivals have a long history; so, there are lots of options when folks want to embrace this theme and represent all the fascinating characters in the carnival world.
4. Haunted mansion and vampire castle masquerade ball
This option is classic and dramatic. Long gowns, masks and gothic touches bring elegance to the night. Red and black décor with chandeliers and candlelight complete the setting. Some parties add a mystery dinner or role play element to deepen the experience.
The costuming for this party is a fun way to dress up for a ball while also embracing the horror and scare of creepy makeup and accessories.
5. Slasher movie marathon and horror film night
For guests who want scares, a movie theme is popular. Nostalgic slasher films from the 1980s and 1990s provide the backbone for this one. A projector or large screen (or white sheet) shows the films while themed snacks such as “bloody” treats fill the tables.
Costumes can be based on all the iconic horror characters from the 1980s and 1990s!
6. Glow in the dark and neon spook
This high energy theme relies on black lights and neon paint. Glow sticks, bright costumes and glowing desserts keep the room vivid. Electronic or disco music fits the mood while guests enjoy a vibrant atmosphere that feels different from traditional Halloween nights.
This party gives a wide variety of costumes that can be done, as long as they glow in the dark.
7. Nostalgia from the 1990s and Y2K revival
Retro culture drives this party plan. Posters, lava lamps and bright colors decorate the room. Costumes inspired by 1990s television, music and video games are encouraged. And a playlist of songs from that time makes the theme complete.
8. Sustainable DIY and natural décor
Eco friendly choices are more common in 2025. Hosts reuse, recycle and upcycle materials. Decorations often include branches, moss, pumpkins and anything you can find at a thrift store. DIY crafts provide both fun and decoration.
Guests are encouraged to thrift or make their own costumes to cut down on waste.
9. Dark nature with venom and vines
Nature itself becomes the scary setting with this theme. Hanging vines, dark florals and textures such as burlap or moss create a sense of being overgrown. Colors of green, black and earth tones dominate the atmosphere where you can turn plants into monstrous.
The costumes for this party can span from explorers to animals to plants. It’s a wide open interpretation of “dark nature.”
10. Murder mystery with interactive and immersive themes
These parties are designed for participation. Guests are given roles, clues and scripts. Rooms are staged to match the story, and food and drinks connect with the theme. Prizes or reveals at the end reward guests who solve the mystery. Food Network has a great recipe for a cake idea that offers clues to the murder mystery. Click here.
Costuming will center on whatever murder mystery theme you choose. From Sherlock Holmes to Agatha Christie and Miss Marple, the options are truly endless.