Invitations
Instead of using the phone, email or Evite to invite guests to your bash, pick up some super-cheap kids’-party invites to send your ennui-infused posse. Your guests will get a kick out of being 33 years old and receiving a Snoopy party invite.

Party Décor
Nothing says “Happy Halloween” like coordinating party linens—if you were lucky enough to find invitations with a He-Man, Scooby-Doo or Wonder Woman theme, make sure to get the matching paper tablecloths, napkins, punch cups and paper plates.

What You’ll Need:

Dime-store decorations
Themed paper plates, cups, napkins, tablecloths
Dry ice (optional)
Groovy-ghouly music
Inexpensive party favors
Candy for trick-or-treaters
Food and drink

As you are buying decorations, try not to spend more than 99¢ to $2.99 per item. The cheaper your party décor, the more elegant it will seem to your guests, who understand that the very best party decorations always include an accordion-pleated crepe-paper pumpkin. Other top picks include paper black cats, witches, goblins and spiders, and gobs of fake spider webs.

Keep the ambiance spooky by rotating a few Halloween CDs. If you have the time and energy to create a few mixed CDs, more power to you. However, savvy party planners know that chain discount stores, like Target or Wal-Mart, sell festive holiday music mixes for under ten bucks.

Remember, kids’ parties always include favors! Don’t disappoint your guests by sending them home empty-handed. Fill a big bowl with inexpensive party favors, such as plastic skeletons, spider rings, chocolate-filled pirate gold, candy and other tacky treasures.

Instead of stationing Mom at the door to placate trick-or-treaters, enlist the help of your guests. Provide large bowls of candy marked with notes reminding whoever answers the door to give at least two pieces of candy to each kid who rings the bell. The last thing you want to add to your list of party clean-up tasks is removing toilet paper from the pine trees in your front yard.