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Tag: Halloween

  • Scream-Worthy Fun at Madworld Haunted Attraction in Greenville, SC

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    Ready for a scare-your-pants-off kind of haunted attraction? We visited Madworld Haunted Attraction in Greenville, SC and had a terrifyingly fun time. Thanks to Madworld for inviting us to experience their terrifying attraction so we could scare our readers in this review.

    Love haunted houses, insane asylums, terrifying clowns, and all things Halloween? Then you’ll want to visit one of the country’s scariest haunted attractions at Madworld Haunted Attraction right here in Greenville, SC.

    We’ll tell you all about how this place started, the terrifying things you’ll encounter, how scary Madworld really is, and how to experience the best of the Halloween season at Madworld.

    About Madworld Haunted Attraction

    Madworld is owned and run by two brothers, Joe and Tim Thompson, and 2025 is their 15th season of the haunted attraction. They’ve always loved horror and all things scary so producing and creating Madworld was a natural fit for both of them.

    The haunted attraction has won accolades nationwide and is ranked as one of the scariest attractions in South Carolina. This is a pretty serious haunted attraction which Joe and Tim have built with the guest experience in mind. There are about 200 actors on any given night looking to terrify guests with their very real-looking getups and acting skills that have been honed for this place and their goal to give guests a memorable – and nightmare-worthy – experience.

    We got a peek at some of the behind-the-scenes magic and the amount of work that goes into the makeup and costumes of each character is stunning. There are silicon masks, rows of makeup chairs, prosthetics, weapons that look real. The team is serious about the appearance of each character and makes sure to make them look as real as possible. Actors have to go through rounds of auditions to work at Madworld.

    But that’s not all. Madworld has a quality control manager whose job is basically go through the entire park several times a night and make sure every character is acting their part to a tee. If not, well, I don’t even want to know. The guy who does this is very serious about his job.

    All the Details about the Haunted Trail

    The biggest part of Madworld is their nearly half-mile haunted trail through a zombie factory and into a world of all kinds of things that scare us humans.

    Joe and Tim told us that they wanted to hit on a variety of things and scenarios that scare people as to make sure they are able to hit all phobias. That is quite obvious once you start walking through the haunted trail, which seemingly never ends.

    The zombie factory starts off your tour after your photo is snapped by the Madworld staff to remember you by. OK, well, not really. You can purchase it afterwards at the customer service desk. Each group is ushered in separately so there may be a bit of a wait (get the Fast Pass – you’ll save a lot of time). There are green glowing lights and you feel like you’re in a prison. Loud noises are all around you and the actors try to reach for you from their jail cell. It’s awesome.

    Once you get instructions about not running through any of the attractions from the creepy host, you’ll enter into the official part of the haunted trail. There are 13 sets/haunted houses and once you leave one, you’ll walk outside and enter into the next one. There are characters everywhere that either will jump out at you or show up in the shadows or just act completely terrifying.

    After the zombie factory, I can’t even remember what is next because there are so many. I’ll tell you the things that stood out to me in the various places.

    First, this wasn’t even me but Bethany and her husband were behind me and passed a writhing girl on the floor, who they thought was me. You can imagine their terror. Thankfully, I was just ahead of them getting scared out of my mind by an exorcist-type girl on a moving bed who was crawling towards me.

    The clown house obviously involved a lot of clowns. But it also involved a lot of flashing lights, strobes, and creepy laughs. This is one the warnings they give you when you buy your tickets.

    The pirate house was my favorite because the characters were entirely convincing but also because they had a part where it seemed that you were going to fall into water where a giant gator was going to eat you. Towards the end of the pirate house, you have to walk through a room where you can’t see the floor – so cool.

    The insane asylum was just that: insane. Lots of patients screaming to let them out plus a room full of old toilets that had me convinced this was a real insane asylum. It was intense.

    One part that was outdoors had a crazed guy lighting up propane with actors with chainsaws hacking up people. One bloody person was dragged in front of me by a dude with a chainsaw and I’m still not sure if it was a real person or not.

    A witch nearly scared me to death when she popped out of her shack. And I really didn’t want to walk through the house with the label of “bless this house” on the door. No, thanks. But I did and it was haunting.

    From the time we entered the zombie factory to when we exited the haunted trail was about 25-30 minutes. It felt longer. There is a lot of blood, gore, and screaming at Madworld.

    Ghost Mini Golf & Carnival Games

    While Madworld is probably most well-known for their intensely scary haunted trail, they have a lot of other things to do while you’re there that won’t involve straining your vocal chords.

    They have an entire mini golf course, several different carnival games, and my favorite – ax throwing. None of these things are terrifying so if your kids want to go someplace “scary” but you know they aren’t ready for the full experience, you can take them here to do ghost mini golf and throw some balls at clowns. Then they can tell their friends they went to Madworld.

    Tasty Treats at Madworld + Gift Shop

    Being scared works up an appetite. Good thing Madworld can help out with that.

    There are some tasty food vendors at Madworld that sell mini donuts, cheeseburgers, funnel cakes, muffins, fries, and even coffee and frappes.

    These are located inside the park. You can sit around the bonfire and eat and calm your heart rate after going through the haunted trail.

    As for the gift shop, you’ll want to go here before heading home. They have some really cool stuff like skeleton wine goblets, terrifying hoodies, ghost soap dishes, and candles.

    Best Ages for Madworld

    If you think I’m going to give you an age range for kids who will enjoy this, sorry to disappoint but it’s not happening. As an adult, I was scared. I know several adults who would also be terrified of Madworld but who want to go and scream their heads off. Other friends are scared just looking at my photos of Madworld.

    I know my own kids, currently ages 12 and 9, and they would never sleep after going to Madworld. But other kids, including another 12-year-old and a teenager who came with us, absolutely loved this place and no doubt will want to go back. When we went, there was a little girl, probably around 7, who was first in line with her mom.

    So what age is good for this haunted attraction? It totally depends on your kid.

    Joe did tell us that when little kids come in, the actors don’t act as scary towards them. So, instead of quietly coming up behind them and waiting for them to turn around and be scared out of their mind, the characters will approach them from the front and give them a high five.

    Tips on Enjoying Madworld

    Here are a few things we found to be helpful when heading to Madworld Haunted Attraction.

    • The actors are not allowed to intentionally touch guests. They are allowed to get very close though and sometimes I brushed up against their costumes.
    • Wear sturdy and closed toed shoes. Sometimes you can’t see the floor in the haunted trail and there is part of it where the floor moves so you want sturdy shoes.
    • Plan to spend some time there. There are a lot of things to enjoy at Madworld besides the haunted trail so plan to spend the evening hanging out, getting scared, and playing carnival games, eating, or chilling at the bonfire.
    • Sign your waiver and have the proof you signed it on your phone at the entrance. That’s the only thing you need to enter Madworld and you’ll be checked for it.
    • If you’re able, get the Fast Pass. It will save you time on the haunted trail since you jump to the head of the line.
    • You can buy a no-scare medallion as part of your ticket package if you want to go but don’t want to be screaming all night. When kids wear these medallions, it repels monsters.
    • Do not wear your Halloween costumes. No costumes are allowed.
    • There are a lot of strobe and flashing lights and fog. If you have a condition where these things aggravate it, then it is not recommended you go. Pregnant women are also cautioned against doing the haunted trail.

    Overall Review of Madworld

    This type of attraction is typically not at the top of my Halloween excursions but readers, this is what I do for you. That said, Madworld was really, really fun. It’s obvious how much work went into creating a top-notch experience for guests who come looking to be scared and have a great night with their friends, family, or date (this would make a great date night).

    The characters are very good at their work and everyone we saw throughout the haunted trail was on point for their particular scare tactic. We never saw any actor break character, which I imagine is very difficult to do for hours each night.

    I’d certainly consider putting Madworld on my fall bucket list after this trip.

    Spooky Drinks

    Operating Hours & Tickets

    You can purchase your tickets online or at the gate. They have several different packages whether you want the full experience of the haunted trail and all the carnival games or just a couple things to do. You can also purchase a season pass if you’re that kind of crazy. General admission tickets are $40/adult and $35/kids 10 and under. Ticket packages go up from there.

    They are open weekends starting September 5, 2025 through November 1, 2025. They are also open Halloween and a few other days before the last weekend of October. The times vary so check the schedule before you go.

    Madworld will open in light rain but if it’s raining heavily, they will need to close. Follow Madworld on Facebook for the most up-to-date announcements.

    Haunted houses and spooky things to do in Greenville, SC

    Madworld Haunted Attraction
    147 Country Manor Road, Piedmont, SC 
    Madworld on Facebook

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    Kristina Hernandez

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  • 106 celebrity Halloween costumes that will stand the test of time

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    The best celebrity Halloween costumes of all time run the gamut in terms of style, subject, and execution.

    Some of the greatest ones are fresh takes on classic characters, such as when Zoë Kravitz and Channing Tatum went as Rosemary and her baby in 2023. Others are just brilliant feats of glam, for example, Halsey as a mermaid.

    Some celebrities have rocked costumes inspired by classic Halloween movies, such as when Jordin Sparks, Dove Cameron and Sofia Carson dressed up as the witches from Hocus Pocus. And others just went for, well, looking hot. (Please see Megan Fox as Pamela Anderson. What a moment!) And then there is Heidi Klum and her infamous Halloween parties over the years.

    In 2024, two major themes emerged among celebrities. For starters, we got a lot of references to Alice in Wonderland, with Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco channeling Alice and the Mad Hatter. Meanwhile, Alix Earle made the “Mad Forest” the theme of her own Halloween bash, going full Heidi Klum as the Cheshire Cat.

    Speaking of Heidi Klum, she hosted her annual Halloween bash in a full-on E.T. costume — as did Janelle Monáe, who hosted her own party in Los Angeles. Clearly, both celebrities are as big of fans of Stephen Spielberg’s 1982 classic as they are of prosthetics.

    If you need inspiration for this year, check out our picks for the best celebrity Halloween costumes of all time. Obviously, we’ll be updating this post as more great outfits come in from this year’s parties.

    This article was previously published on GLAMOUR US.

    26 couples Halloween costumes serving double the trouble, including our top Beetlejuice looks

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    Whitney Perry

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  • ‘I’m sorry kids’: Texas woman goes to Home Depot for pumpkins. Then the price tag has her hoping Aldi will ‘save the day’

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    With Fall around the corner, picking a pumpkin is a tradition that marks the start of the season. However, searching for the best one at an affordable price is just as essential. When one woman browsed Home Depot, she couldn’t believe how much the retailer was charging for pumpkins.

    In a clip with 1 million views, TikTok creator @whiskeynjava4me stands in front of a box of extra-large pumpkins next to the Halloween decorations at Home Depot.

    “I’m sorry, kids, but we’re not gonna be participating in fall pumpkins this year,” she says, pointing to the“$15.98” price tag in black font. “Sixteen dollars for a pumpkin?” she asks, aghast.

    Then the content creator unveils an almost empty batch of jumbo pumpkins for $19.98. “Twenty dollars? Absolutely not,” she concludes.

    She continues to express her shock in the caption, writing, “Fall decor is going to be pumpkin and mum free unless Aldi saves the day. $16-$20 for a PUMPKIN?!?!”

    What did viewers think?

    Many were in disbelief. As a result, they shared alternatives to find cheaper pumpkins than the home improvement store.

    “Aldi and Meijer had them for under $5, Home Depot is robbing people with those prices,” one viewer remarked.

    “For that price you can go to a pumpkin patch and get 5 pumpkins, participate in the corn maze, pony rides and food drinks!!! What!!! $20 for A SINGULAR pumpkin! They’ve got me twisted,” a second commented.

    “You don’t buy pumpkins in a Home Depot. Of course they’re marked up. Go to a grocery store or farmer’s market,” another suggested.

    “Go to Sams or Walmart! It’s 7.00 for really big pumpkins,” a fourth recommended.

    Why are Home Depot pumpkin prices more expensive?

    In 2024, the United States imported $540 million worth of vegetables, which included pumpkins. During this time, The Krazy Coupon Lady reported that the jumbo pumpkins she found were almost $11. When President Trump increased the tariffs in August, they affected the prices of imported products, including those at Home Depot. On the other hand, the home improvement company had sold most of its imported goods before the tariffs. Additionally, they source half of their products in North America.

    “It’s important to remember that more than 50% of our products are sourced domestically and not subject to tariffs,” a Home Depot spokesperson told The New York Post. “For some imported goods, tariff rates are significantly higher than last quarter, so there will be modest price movement in certain categories, but it won’t be broad-based.”

    So, it’s unknown whether the tariffs are the sole reason why Home Depot’s pumpkins are more costly than those at other places. Since Aldi’s pumpkins are around $5 (prices may vary by store), @whiskeynjava4me should have better luck there.

    @whiskeynjava4me Fall decor is going to be pumpkin and mum free unless Aldi saves the day. $16-$20 for a PUMPKIN?!?! #falldecorating #pumpkinseason ♬ original sound – Whiskey N’ Java

    The Mary Sue reached out to @whiskeynjava4me via TikTok comment and direct message as well as Home Depot via press email.

    Have a tip we should know? [email protected]

    Image of Melody Heald

    Melody Heald

    Melody Heald is a culture writer. Her work can be found in Glitter Magazine, BUST Magazine, The Daily Dot, and more. You can email her at: [email protected]

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    Melody Heald

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  • Family-Friendly Halloween Fun at Greenville County Library

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    Posted on
    by Erin Gorges
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    Looking for safe, festive, and family-friendly ways to celebrate Halloween? Greenville County Library System has a packed lineup of Halloween-themed events all October long, from spooky storytimes to costume parties and pumpkin painting. With activities for babies through school-age kids, there’s something for every little ghost and goblin. The events below are kid-friendly, but there are a lot of fun adult Halloween events at your local library too!

    Make Halloween Memories at Your Library

    Greenville County Libraries are making October extra special with spooky stories, costumes, crafts, and science fun. These GCLS Halloween events are:

    • Free & safe – family-friendly environments perfect for little ones.
    • Creative & hands-on – from pumpkin painting to candy experiments.
    • Inclusive – babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children all have options.
    • Community-driven – connect with other families and celebrate together.

    Mark your calendars, pick out costumes, and make this October unforgettable with Halloween events at your Greenville County Library branch! Always check with your local library in case of scheduling changes or cancellations!

    Halloween Guide, trick or treat in Greenville, SC

    Find more Halloween events, including a huge trick-or-treating list, in our Guide to Halloween!

    Candy Corn Contest (Ages 12 & under)

    Happening October 1–31, 2025 at all library branches listed below
    Kids can test their guessing skills in this sweet challenge! Each participating library will have a jar filled with candy corn, just ask the librarian! Submit your guess, and the closest entry at each branch will win a prize.

    Library Locations:

    • Travelers Rest Branch – 17 Center Street, Travelers Rest, SC
    • Anderson Road Library – 2625 Anderson Road, Greenville, SC
    • Berea Library (Sarah Dobey Jones Branch) – 111 N Highway 25 Bypass, Greenville, SC
    • Five Forks Branch – 104 Sunnydale Drive, Simpsonville, SC
    • Fountain Inn Library (Kerry Ann Younts Culp Branch) – 311 North Main Street, Fountain Inn, SC
    • Greer Library (Jean M. Smith Branch) – 505 Pennsylvania Avenue, Greer, SC
    • Hughes Main Library – 25 Heritage Green Place, Greenville, SC
    • Mauldin Library (W. Jack Greer Branch) – 800 W Butler Road, Greenville, SC
    • Pelham Road Branch (F. W. Symmes) – 1508 Pelham Road, Greenville, SC
    • Simpsonville Branch – 626 NE Main Street, Simpsonville, SC
    • Taylors Branch – 316 W Main Street, Taylors, SC

    Spooky Storytimes for Kids, Toddlers, and Babies

    Spooktacular Stories (Ages 5 & under)
    Ages 5 & under. Wear a costume for fun, spooky stories and songs.

    • Five Forks: Mon, Oct 27, 2025, 10 – 10:30 am
    • Mauldin: Mon, Oct 27, 2025, 10 – 10:30 am
    • Travelers Rest: Mon, Oct 27, 2025, 10 – 10:30 am
    • Berea: Tue, Oct 28, 2025, 10:30 – 11 am
    • Main: Tue, Oct 28, 2025, 10 – 10:30 am
    • Greer: Tue, Oct 28, 2025, 10 – 10:30 am
    • Fountain Inn: Wed, Oct 29, 2025, 10 – 10:30 am
    • Pelham Road: Wed, Oct 29, 2025, 10 – 10:30 am and 11 – 11:30 am
    • Simpsonville: Thu, Oct 30, 2025, 11 – 11:30 am
    • Augusta Road: Thu, Oct 30, 2025, 10 – 10:30 am
    • Taylors: Fri, Oct 31, 2025, 10 – 10:30 am

    Not-So-Spooky Toddler Tales (Ages 19+ mos)
    Ages 19+ months. Wear a costume and listen to slightly spooky tales, songs, and rhymes. 

    • Greer: Tue, Oct 27, 2025, 10 – 10:30 am
    • Main: Thu, Oct 30, 2025, 10 – 10:30 am

    Spooky Goose on the Loose (Ages 1–24 mos)
    Halloween-themed Mother Goose on the Loose.

    • Main: Mon, Oct 27, 2025, 10 – 10:30 am

    Lollipops Concert: Creepy Pair of Underwear!
    Story-based performance. Join the Greenville Symphony Orchestra percussion and Traysie Amick of the South Carolina Children’s Theatre. Great for ages 3 – 8. 

    • Greer: Sat, Oct 11, 2025, 10 – 10:30 am
    • Main: Sat, Oct 11, 2025, 11:30 – 12 pm
    Lollipops concert
    Lollipops Concert

    👻 Costume Celebrations for Little Ones

    Musical Jamboree: Monster Mash (Ages 18mos–4yrs)
    Children ages 18 mos – 4 years. Wear your costumes for Halloween-themed stories, songs, movement activities, and instrument play.

    • Main: Mon, Oct 27, 2025, 10 – 10:30 am
    • Pelham Road: Tue, Oct 28, 2025, 10 – 10:30 am
    • Five Forks: Wed, Oct 29, 2025, 10 – 10:30 am
    • Simpsonville: Thu, Oct 30, 2025, 10 – 10:30 am

    Bouncing Babies Boo Bash (Ages 1mo–18mos)
    Babies ages 1 – 18 mos and their caregivers. Wear costumes for a Halloween celebration featuring stories, songs, and finger plays. Groups are not allowed for this event due to space.

    • Five Forks: Tue, Oct 28, 2025, 10 – 10:30 am
    • Simpsonville: Tue, Oct 28, 2025, 10 – 10:30 am
    • Travelers Rest: Wed, Oct 29, 2025, 10 – 10:30 am
    • Taylors: Thu, Oct 30, 2025, 10 – 10:30 am
    • Pelham Road: Thu, Oct 30, 2025, 11 – 11:30 am
    • Main: Thu, Oct 30, 2025, 11 – 11:30 am

    Twinkle Bear’s Pumpkin Party (Ages 3–6)
    Bring your favorite stuffed animal for a class led by Dance Without Limits for ages 3-6. Wear shoes you can dance in. 

    • Five Forks: Wed, Oct 1, 2025, 10 – 10:30 am
    Golly and cauldron of candy

    🧪 Halloween STEM & Creative Fun

    STEM Studies: Candy Science (Ages 5–12)
    Science experiments with candy. Ages 5-12; supplies provided.

    • Anderson Road: Mon, Oct 13, 2025, 3:45 – 4:30 pm
    • Pelham Road: Wed, Oct 22, 2025, 3:45 – 4:30 pm

    Teen Art: Pumpkin Painting (Ages 12–18)
    Ages 12-18 are invited to decorate their own pumpkin with paint. Limited to the first 15 teens. All supplies provided.

    • Travelers Rest: Fri, Oct 10, 2025, 10:30 – 11:15 am
    • Main: Mon, Oct 13, 2025, 3:45 – 5 pm

    Spooky Stay & Play (Ages 2–6)
    Halloween-themed drop-in event for ages 2- 6 with kindergarten readiness skill practice.

    • Main: Tue, Oct 28, 2025, 10:30 – 11:15 am

    Superhero Masks (Ages 5–11)

    • Mauldin: Tue, Nov 3, 2025, 3:45 – 4:30 pm
    • Main: Tue, Nov 4, 2025, 3:45 – 4:30 pm

    Family Craft Night: Not So Spooky
    Fall and holiday-themed crafts.

    • Five Forks: Thu, Oct 23, 2025, 5 – 7 pm

    Erin Gorges

    About the Author

    Erin is a Greenville, South Carolina native who loves taking her two young daughters on adventures around the Southeast. Erin enjoys gardening, hiking, and dabbling in DIY projects. Her favorite things to do with her husband and kids include sensory activities, swimming, playing with their dogs, and exploring the local state and national parks.

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  • An Odd Trio of ‘Halloween’ Movies Is Returning to Theaters

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    The latest movies to come back to theaters are the Halloween franchise, which makes sense since it’s spooky season. But instead of just the original film or the more recent trilogy, we’re getting three installments that’ve been surprisingly grouped together.

    Along with the original 1978 Halloween, both Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers and Halloween 5: The Revenge of Michael Myers are also coming back to the big screen. The trio’s cinematic return comes courtesy of Trancas International Films and CineLife Entertainment.

    While the press release features quotes from CineLife and Trancas executives about the franchise being perfect for the season and the joy of the cinematic experience, the reason for this specific trio is a bit confounding. Trancas has been involved with the Halloween films since the first movie—the second and third films being the sole exceptions—but that’s the only real link between these movies. 

    The two Halloween sequels take place a decade or so later from the original movie, with Michael Myers—played by George P. Wilbur in 4 and Donald L. Shanks in 5—waking up from a coma at the start of each film and spending both of them trying to kill his niece, Jamie Lloyd (Danielle Harris). Both films are part of the “Thorn Trilogy” arc that’s mostly explored in the sixth film, 1995’s The Curse of Michael Myers. Neither Return nor Revenge was critically well-regarded upon release, but of the two, Return has been looked at more favorably in the years since.

    You can head to the theater to see the first Halloween, Return, or Revenge in select cities. The first film is screening starting tomorrow, September 19, and the re-releases are expected to last through the end of October. You can check local showtimes here.

    Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.

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    Justin Carter

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  • Tariffs could hike prices on Halloween products like costumes and candy, but experts say consumers aren’t scared

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    Tariffs could create scary prices on some of your Halloween favorites this year, from skeletons to pumpkins and costumes.

    But that isn’t deterring shoppers. The National Retail Federation expects Halloween spending to hit a record $13.1 billion this year, breaking the previous record of $12.2 billion.

    “We’ve seen actually a big focus on discount stores this year,” said Katherine Cullen of the National Retail Federation. “People are aware of what’s going on with tariffs and they’re gonna invest in what’s important to them, but they’re also gonna be very smart with their money.”

    Impact on businesses

    Derek Kennedy owns Magic etc Ft Worth Costume Inc. in north Texas. From masks and makeup to costumes, the Halloween season accounts for at least 25% of his yearly sales.

    This year, Kennedy said the tariffs have had a terrifying effect, like slower shipping time and higher wholesale prices.

    “Most of the costumes are made overseas and through the different manufacturers, the tariffs have ranged anywhere from 5% to 19%,” Kennedy explained.

    Kennedy is testing out a new trick by treating his loyal shoppers to low prices by absorbing most of the cost of tariffs.

    “Even though there was a surcharge at the bottom of the invoice of $300, $500, $700 sometimes, I kind of ignored it this year and just tried to price like normal because, you know, people only have so much money to spend,” he said.”

    But for some items, like fog machines, the price difference is too much for Kennedy to absorb. The machine last year was $58. This year, it will cost $74, he said.

    It’s not just costumes and decorations. Candy for your trick-or-treaters will also cost you more.

    According to online sales trackers, an average bag of fun-size chocolate bars is up approximately $5 compared to last year. An average bag of snack-sized chocolate bars is up about $2. Last year, a 48-count box of full-size chocolate bars cost about $40. This year it’s more than $50.

    Omar Villafranca

    Omar Villafranca is a CBS News correspondent based in Dallas. He joined CBS News in 2014 as a correspondent for Newspath. Before CBS, Villafranca worked at KXAS-TV Dallas-Fort Worth, at KOTV-TV the CBS affiliate in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and at KSWO-TV in Lawton, Oklahoma.

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  • This Ohio pumpkin patch was voted the best in the U.S.

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    OHIO — Summer may be going out with a bang with a rise in temperatures across the Buckeye State, but soon, it’ll be fall’s time to shine.

    With that may come a trip to a local pumpkin farm to pick the perfect few to adorn your porch or to carve scary faces into. 

    But before you do, consider visiting a pumpkin farm in Radnor, Ohio, which was voted the best pumpkin patch across the U.S. by USA Today’s 10Best Reader’s Choice. 

    What You Need To Know

    • This year, the Lehner’s Pumpkin Patch in Radnor, Ohio, took the top spot

    • The farm was established in 1991

    • Its opening day is this Saturday

    Each year, USA Today’s Reader’s Choice selects a handful of categories in which a panel of experts selects nominees for. Once the panel narrows down their choices, the public is invited to choose. The final top 10 make up the 10Best Reader’s Choice awards in each category, according to USA Today. 

    This year, the Lehner’s Pumpkin Patch in Radnor, Ohio, took the top spot in the pumpkin patch category. 

    “At Lehner’s Pumpkin Farm, there are 15-plus acres of pick-your-own pumpkins, ranging from large carving ones to pie pumpkins — or just choose from a pre-picked and washed batch,” USA Today wrote in its rankings. “Additionally, Lehner’s features loads of family-friendly activities, like pumpkin bowling, barrel rides, a corn maze, a real henhouse, and a historic Pumpkinville play village. There are farm animals, a climbing wall, and tractors to race, plus the fall foliage to enjoy.”

    Lehner’s Pumpkin Farm celebrated the ranking on Facebook, thanking the community for its support over the years. 

    “We are so humbled by this honor and we are so incredibly grateful to our patrons, our community, and our amazing employees that help to make this place come alive every fall—Thank You,” the post read. “We may never be able to live up to such a title, but what we can promise is this: year after year, our little farm will keep trying to give you a place to make memories, share laughter, and find joy!”

    The farm was established in 1991. It’s a family-owned and operated farm with approximately 1,110 acres of corn, wheat and soybeans along with its pumpkins and gourds, according to its website.

    It opens for the season this Saturday. Tickets and more can be found here.

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    Lydia Taylor

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  • How to Serve the Sexiest Men’s Halloween Costumes As a Duo

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    Want to double your fun this spooky season? Halloween is the one day of the year when you can be anything you want to be, even the sexiest man alive. Often referred to as the prime time for naughty mischief, don’t expect to be the only guy dressed in the sexiest men’s Halloween costume in […]

    The post How to Serve the Sexiest Men’s Halloween Costumes As a Duo appeared first on IFB.

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    Rachel G

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  • First look inside Bloody Mary maze coming to Knott’s Scary Farm

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    Bloody Mary will beckon you to say her name into any one of the 20-plus mirrors scattered throughout her Knott’s Berry Farm haunted maze so she can drag you into the underworld where she’s been trapped for years.

    Mary — The Haunting of Worth Home haunted maze will be part of Knott’s Scary Farm at the Buena Park theme park on 28 select nights from Thursday, Sept. 18 through Nov. 1.

    ALSO SEE: First look inside mutant super soldier maze coming to Knott’s Scary Farm

    Knott’s Scary Farm creative designer Jon Asperin offered a walk-through tour of the new maze that brings to life the Bloody Mary urban myth told by children for generations.

    Knott’s Scary Farm creative designer Jon Asperin outside the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott’s Scary Farm at Knott’s Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)

    The backstory for the maze follows the mournful tale of Mary Worth after the tragic death of her family. Mistaken as the murderer, Mary is stoned and buried alive in a shallow grave by the enraged townspeople. Aggrieved and pained, Mary returns from the grave to exact revenge on anyone who steps inside her family home.

    Mary’s apparition can be summoned by anyone who turns out the lights and says “Bloody Mary” into a mirror three times. Mary pulls the summoner through the mirror and into her underworld realm.

    ALSO SEE: 13 most Instagrammable foods at Knott’s Scary Farm

    Today, the Worth family home has been turned into a group home for disenfranchised teenagers and their counselors, caretakers and caregivers where Scary Farmers will visit on Halloween night.

    Two key elements were still missing from the maze during the preview walk-through tour: Blood and bodies. Expect almost every room to be splattered in blood.

    The Bloody Mary maze was codenamed “Cujo” during the development phase.

    Let’s take a scene-by-scene look inside the new Bloody Mary maze coming to Knott’s Scary Farm 2025.

    The exterior of the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott's Scary Farm at Knott's Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)
    The exterior of the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott’s Scary Farm at Knott’s Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)

    Entry Foyer

    A counselor will greet maze visitors in the foyer and guide them into the group home.

    Framed pictures of the families and children who have lived in the home will line the central hallway and help set up the backstory for the maze.

    The Kitchen scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott's Scary Farm at Knott's Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)
    The Kitchen scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott’s Scary Farm at Knott’s Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)

    Central Staircase

    An eerie apparition of Mary Worth will appear at the top of the staircase.

    “Her body is contorted and her bones are breaking,” Asperin said. “She beckons down to the guests, telling them to get out of the house.”

    The Dining Room scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott's Scary Farm at Knott's Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)
    The Dining Room scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott’s Scary Farm at Knott’s Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)

    Dining Room

    Mary will materialize and address the maze visitors in the first of a series of mirrors found throughout the house.

    “The mirrors are definitely something to look out for,” Asperin said.

    Mary’s hands will reach out of the mirror and creep up on either side of a teenager sitting at the dining room table.

    Cameron's Bedroom scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott's Scary Farm at Knott's Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)
    Cameron’s Bedroom scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott’s Scary Farm at Knott’s Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)

    Cameron’s Bedroom

    A teenager named Cameron will be combing her hair when she sees a vision of Mary in a mirror amid thunder and lightning.

    “You’ll see Mary for a split second during that lightning crash,” Asperin said.

    Mary’s hands will reach out from both sides of the mirror and attack Cameron.

    The Boy's Bedroom scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott's Scary Farm at Knott's Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)
    The Boy’s Bedroom scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott’s Scary Farm at Knott’s Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)

    Boy’s Bedroom

    Mary’s face will appear on the video game monitor in a boy’s bedroom strewn with dirty underwear and socks.

    The boy dressed as a pirate will be standing at a full-length floor mirror getting ready for Halloween.

    When he turns around, the boy will be a monstrous beast with peeled back skin and an extra head.

    The Bathroom scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott's Scary Farm at Knott's Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)
    The Bathroom scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott’s Scary Farm at Knott’s Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)

    Bathroom

    Mary will peer through the bathroom mirror and beckon visitors to “Say my name.”

    She will also appear as a silhouette behind the shower curtain.

    ALSO SEE: Knott’s Scary Farm announces Boulet Brothers as horror hosts

    The pristine bathroom will switch to something more ominous every time lightning strikes.

    “The whole room turns red with blood that’s going to be projected on the walls,” Asperin said.

    Cameron's Bedroom scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott's Scary Farm at Knott's Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)
    Cameron’s Bedroom scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott’s Scary Farm at Knott’s Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)

    Closet

    A “scareactor” named Shush will emerge from the closet and warn visitors not to summon Mary.

    “His mouth is stitched shut so he doesn’t say Mary’s name,” Asperin said.

    The Kitchen scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott's Scary Farm at Knott's Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)
    The Kitchen scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott’s Scary Farm at Knott’s Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)

    Kitchen

    The kitchen cabinets will mysteriously open and close on their own — with a Shadow Goblin hiding in one of the cupboards.

    An underworld demon named Skinback will be wearing the skin of one of the group home counselors.

    “A whole bunch of skin has been stitched together to create this mask,” Asperin said.

    The Backyard Greenhouse scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott's Scary Farm at Knott's Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)
    The Backyard Greenhouse scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott’s Scary Farm at Knott’s Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)

    Backyard Greenhouse

    Visitors will pass through a laundry line filled with old Knott’s Scary Farm T-shirts as they enter the backyard.

    “There’s some cool Easter Eggs from Camp Gonnagetcha and Cinema Slasher,” Asperin said.

    Visitors will be forced to avoid falling tree limbs, a garden shed full of severed body parts and a pack of rats as they head toward the greenhouse.

    ALSO SEE: Universal’s Horror Nights: 8 mazes ranked from best to worst

    A rotting dead girl on an animatronic swing surrounded by maggots, centipedes and cockroaches will deliver an unexpected scare.

    Mary will try to claw her way out of a shallow grave in the greenhouse courtesy of a clever Pepper’s ghost effect.

    A Cujo doghouse will sit in the backyard in a tribute to the maze’s codename.

    The Storm Cellar scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott's Scary Farm at Knott's Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)
    The Storm Cellar scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott’s Scary Farm at Knott’s Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)

    Storm Cellar

    Two more mirrors covered in chains and padlocks will be waiting for visitors in the storm cellar.

    Mary’s hand will reach out of one of the mirrors to play a nearby upright piano.

    ALSO SEE: 6 best things to eat at Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights

    Mary will appear as a scareactor for the first time in the maze — just not in place you expect.

    Just when you think it’s safe, a sheet ghost will rise out of a winged chair stored in the basement.

    The Counselor's Bedroom scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott's Scary Farm at Knott's Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)
    The Counselor’s Bedroom scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott’s Scary Farm at Knott’s Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)

    Counselor’s Bedroom

    The maze heads back inside the house where a priest will be conducting a bedside exorcism.

    A victim has been pulled headfirst into a vanity mirror over a dresser.

    “You start seeing what Mary’s been doing,” Asperin said. “She’s pulling these bodies in through these mirrors and making them her next victims.”

    ALSO SEE: Six Flags summer attendance up, revenue down amid deep discounting

    Mary will emerge from a trio of mirrors above the bed — with her massive animatronic head popping out of the middle mirror and her arms coming out of the two side mirrors.

    Watch out for monsters under the bed.

    The Counselor's Bedroom scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott's Scary Farm at Knott's Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)
    The Counselor’s Bedroom scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott’s Scary Farm at Knott’s Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)

    Upside Down

    Visitors will enter the counselor’s bedroom again in the very next scene — but this time the room will be upside down.

    “This portal opens into Mary’s world,” Asperin said. “It’s very similar to our world, but it’s cold, desolate and barren. There’s no signs of life. It feels very much like the Upside Down in ‘Stranger Things.’”

    ALSO SEE: First look inside Terrifier maze coming to Universal’s Horror Nights

    The victim that was pulled into the vanity mirror in the previous scene will emerge headfirst in the Upside Down.

    There’s still a monster under the bed — only now the bed is on the ceiling.

    The Backyard Greenhouse scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott's Scary Farm at Knott's Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)
    The Backyard Greenhouse scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott’s Scary Farm at Knott’s Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)

    Infinity Room

    Visitors stepping into a closet will encounter four Mary mannequins repeating endlessly in opposing mirrors.

    “From here on out it’s bloody,” Asperin said. “It’s just nasty.”

    The Moving Hallway scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott's Scary Farm at Knott's Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)
    The Moving Hallway scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott’s Scary Farm at Knott’s Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)

    Moving Hallway

    The walls will tilt, sway, expand and compress as visitors pass through a narrow hallway.

    “It’s like the Star Wars trash compactor where the walls are closing in,” Asperin said.

    ALSO SEE: Knott’s Berry Farm has been home to 4 generations of this family

    A shattered window at the end of the hallway will bear the Wiccan symbol of a witch’s knot — traditionally used to contain bad spirits.

    “Behind that is going to be a large video monitor with a gigantic Mary peeking through,” Asperin said. “It’s like a dollhouse effect and you’re inside her dollhouse.”

    The Dark Room scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott's Scary Farm at Knott's Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)
    The Dark Room scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott’s Scary Farm at Knott’s Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)

    Dark Room

    The only way to exit the moving hallway will be through a darkened room filled with Mary’s wet hair. You read that right: A room filled with hair.

    “It’s going to be absolutely complete darkness,” Asperin said. “You’re not going to see anything.”

    Emerging from the darkness, visitors will encounter a character named Hair Sway on an overhead gangway. Hair Sway will scare visitors with her six-foot-long locks of hair.

    The Backyard Greenhouse scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott's Scary Farm at Knott's Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)
    The Backyard Greenhouse scene in the Bloody Mary haunted maze during Knott’s Scary Farm at Knott’s Berry Farm. (Photo by Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register/SCNG)

    Finale

    The finale will be filled with a whole lot of mirrors and a whole lot of Mary.

    A huge animatronic puppet of Mary will mysteriously emerge from a mirror and reach out toward visitors.

    A Bloody Mary scareactor will deliver the final scare.

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  • Free Halloween Coloring Pages for Kids

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    By Lorraine Akemann, Marketing and Outreach, Khan Academy Kids

    Check out our free Halloween coloring pages for kids! Little learners from preschool through 2nd grade can have fun learning with free Halloween-themed activities from Khan Academy Kids.

    Themes are a great way to engage learners, and what better way to capture attention than by trick, treat, and learning? Join the fun as we clear off the cobwebs and enter the spooktacular Halloween world of Khan Academy Kids.

    “Thematic units are when a teacher uses a theme to teach across multiple classroom disciplines. In early childhood, this is a highly effective way to engage learners. Since the brain naturally looks for patterns and connections, we learn more effectively when learning topics are not segmented, but grouped together and based on our current knowledge (Moyer, 2016). Thematic units increase student motivation and academic achievement (Tuffelmire, 2017).” – Education World

    Get started by downloading our free Khan Academy Kids app

    All of the coloring pages you see below are also included in the free Khan Academy Kids app this October. If you don’t have a printer, no problem! Just download our free app, sign up for an account, and head to the app’s Library to see our Halloween lessons and activities. Our themed lessons include math, reading, logic, and creative activities for children ages 2-8.

    Halloween pumpkin coloring

    Kodi and the Khan Academy Kids characters are having a blast carving pumpkins in the pumpkin patch. They even added noses and ears to their pumpkins. Try decorating some pumpkins at home with the kids this season. What kind of pumpkin friends do they create? Click the image to download and print.

    Halloween coloring pumpkins
    Click the image to Download and Print

    Halloween costume coloring

    The Khan Academy Kids crew is heading out to trick or treat in their neighborhood. Kids can color in the cute costumes and little pumpkins they are carrying. What about you? What will you be for Halloween? Click the image to download and print.

    Halloween coloring costumes
    Click the image to download and print

    Halloween mystery house

    Check out this mystery house! With tall towers, raised roofs, and ghoulish garden gates, we are curious to learn who lives here. Do your kids have any ideas? Click the image to download and print.

    Halloween coloring house
    Click the image to download and print

    Halloween jack-o-lanterns

    Time to carve jack-o-lanterns to brighten up the walkway on Halloween night. Color the page to help kids get ready for pumpkin carving. What kind of face will they create? Happy, scary, funny, or something else completely? Click the image to download and print.

    Halloween coloring jack-o-lanterns
    Click the image to download and print

    Halloween flying witch

    This little witch and her cuddly kitty are too cute to spook. Color the moon through the witch’s broom! Decorate this supermoon scene, and then add a tale about their adventures on Halloween night. Click the image to download and print.

    Halloween coloring witch and cat
    Click the image to download and print

    Halloween costume: Kodi as a space cadet

    Color Kodi the bear dressed up as a space cadet. Click the image to download and print.

    Click the image to download and print

    Halloween costume: Ollo as a Franken-friend

    Color Ollo the elephant dressed up as Frankeinstein’s monster. Click the image to download and print.

    Click the image to download and print

    Halloween costume: Peck as grapes

    Color Peck the hummingbird dressed up as grapes. Click the image to download and print.

    Click the image to download and print

    Halloween costume: Reya as a unicorn

    Color Reya the red panda dressed up as a unicorn. Click the image to download and print.

    Click the image to download and print

    Halloween costume: Sandy as a crayon

    Color Sandy the dingo dressed up as a crayon. Click the image to download and print.

    Click the image to download and print

    Halloween math counters

    Ease into learning with these adorable math counters. How many cats, hats, pumpkins, bats, and spiders can little ones color, cut, and count? Having fun with math? Extend this activity with counting lessons in the Math tab of the Khan Academy Kids app! Click the image to download and print.

    Halloween coloring math counters
    Click the image to download and print

    More Halloween coloring pages from Crayola!

    Our friends at Crayola Education love this time of year! If you are looking for more Halloween activities for kids, visit their website for free coloring pages like this detailed witch hat below. Or, get interactive with a live event on their Facebook Page called Read Along, Draw Along: Gustavo, the Shy Ghost. Celebrating Halloween with friends is so much fun!

    Halloween coloring Crayola
    Click the image to Download from the Crayola website

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    Lorraine Akemann

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  • ‘Not them trying to gaslight you’: Woman fills 2 Jack o’ Lantern buckets for 7-Eleven ‘bring your own cup’ day. Then she tries to checkout

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    A woman brings two trick-or-treating buckets to 7-Eleven, thinking the convenience chain participates in “bring your own cup day.” But the workers tell her she’s mistaken when she takes out her $4 at the checkout.

    In a video with over 6.6 million views, TikTok Aiyanna (@aiyannace) yells, “Hello, everyone! Happy holiday!” as she enters the convenience store.

    First, she places one Jack-o’-Lantern bucket underneath the piña colada slushie flavor. She fills it up until the machine is nearly empty. Then, she places the second bucket underneath the blue raspberry flavor and fills it to the brim.

    However, she asks the cashier why he looks “confused” as she places the buckets on the register.

    Was 7-Eleven participating in ‘bring your own cup’ day?

    In a Sept. 4 press release, 7-Eleven announces that its next bring your own cup day is Sept. 13. Customers can bring any container of any size and fill it up with a Slurpee for $1.99. The convenience chain gives “fishbowls, flower vases, pitchers, and popcorn buckets” as examples of acceptable containers.

    However, Aiyanna may have mixed up her dates, arriving at the store with her buckets on Sept. 11. The workers shake their heads as they tell Aiyanna that the promotion isn’t valid.

    “You gonna make me put my slushie back?” she asks, handing the cashier $4 for the two mega slushies.

    One worker insists that bring your own cup day has “never been done.” Some franchises may not participate in the promotion.

    The clip cuts, and she shows herself giving the giant slushies to two men outside of 7-Eleven. She reenters the store to buy the other people slushies—albeit normal-sized ones—too.

    She asks the worker, “Does this qualify for your program?” as she hands him the Big Gulp-sized slushies.

    How did viewers react to her viral mistake?

    In the comments, viewers joke about Aiyanna’s go-with-the-flow attitude despite mixing up the dates of the bring your own cup promotion.

    “My girl aint let her vibe get killed. she say ‘you get a slushy! YOU get a slushy! EVERYBODY gets a slushy,”” a commenter writes.

    “I actually never laughed so hard in my entire life,” another says.

    “Everytime I see your videos it’s just a perfect representation of exercising free will and I respect that,” a third adds.

    Others point out that the 7-Eleven workers watched her fill the buckets with slushie and didn’t say anything before she reached checkout.

    “It’s the fact they gonna tell you it’s not ‘bring your own cup day’ but not act like they did watch you fil up two buckets the whole time,” one says.

    “The employees watching you fill up a Halloween bucket with slushie,” another writes.

    “I mean they literally could’ve stopped you at ANY point prior to checkout,” a third remarks.

    @aiyannace Happy Slushy Day ? #bringyourowncupday #slushy #7eleven #cup ♬ original sound – Aiyanna?

    The Mary Sue reached out to 7-Eleven and Aiyanna via email for further comment.

    Have a tip we should know? [email protected]

    Image of Rebekah Harding

    Rebekah Harding

    Rebekah Harding is a reporter and content strategist based in Philadelphia. You can contact her at rebekahjonesharding.com.

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    Rebekah Harding

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  • How to DIY the most popular Halloween hairstyles, according to pros

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    Spooky season is here, meaning it’s time to start planning your costume — and, of course, your matching Halloween hair. Not sure where to start? No need to worry. We tapped a handful of hairstyling experts for tips on how to DIY the most popular Halloween hairstyles, plus how to decide on a coordinating costume.

    As a starting point, “pick someone who already has similar hair to yours, then do some styling tricks—like wear a clip-in bang,” celebrity hairstylist Clayton Hawkins suggests. It’s the perfect year to try it: Glam goth is on trend so perhaps your Halloween style icon is Wednesday Addams with that hair. Or perhaps you fancy rekindling your love for the Cowboy Carter tour with a nod to the Texan blowout? The ’90s and Britpop beauty are calling, too, after Oasis fever struck so a tribute to Nicole Appleton’s chunky highlights could be equally as popular.

    Feeling inspired? Keep scrolling for expert-backed advice on how to DIY this year’s most popular Halloween hairstyles, and get ready to screenshot.

    A version of this article originally appeared on GLAMOUR US.

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    Danielle Sinay, Fiona Embleton

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  • 57 Halloween nails that are spooky yet stylish

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    That said, maximalist nail art is back on the map for 2025 and we love seeing the intricate artistry going into some truly phenomenal designs. Plus, with 3D designs coming on leaps over the past year, expect this season to be extra freaky, with nail techs able to raise the bar with special effect spiders and snakes, oozing blood and glow in the dark details

    Instagram content

    This content can also be viewed on the site it originates from.

    Elsewhere, glazed doughnut nails have had an autumnal update, with chrome chocolate and spiced pumpkin latte shades swapped in instead of the signature pearly pink. We’ve also seen delicate details like simple spider webs over a bare base and mystical moons.

    As for what’s trending on TikTok, “vampire nails” sees dangerous-looking red and black manis in a whole bunch of renditions from ombre, to stiletto… and aura, which is another major search term.

    TikTok content

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    With more of us tapping into our electromagnetic energy, aura nails have been big news in mani circles for some time. The design sees an ombre blend of two or more colours, but instead of being applied vertically or horizontally, it’s applied spherically to create an “aura” shape. And, heading toward Halloween “vampire aura nails” are trending with one user, @glossytipped picking up over 9 million views for a red and black design that wouldn’t look out of place on the Volturi coven.

    TikTok content

    This content can also be viewed on the site it originates from.

    Whatever your vibe, we’ve rounded up the best Halloween nail designs on Instagram for you to recreate now.

    Check out our favourite Halloween nails to get you in the mood…

    Cat-eye Halloween nails

    One of the biggest nail trends for 2025, cat-eye nails have been everywhere. It makes sense then for Halloween to give a nod to it via these spooky face cat-eye nails.

    Instagram content

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    Wednesday Addams nails

    With Wednesday season 2 dropping earlier this year, it’s a no-brainer to pay homage to the show’s titular character with some Halloween nails. Go for hyperrealistic portrayals of Jenna Ortega or more abstract like this monochromatic look that features spiders, coffins, stripes and her signature outfit.

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    Elle Turner, Dominic Cadogan

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  • Someone Finally Got the Note and Fixed This ‘Beetlejuice’ Sign

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    If you’re a movie prop replica collector, you know exactly which Beetlejuice sign we’re talking about.

    For years, as a Beetlejuice decor hunter, there has been one item I refused to buy on principle because it had one glaring mistake: it was not in-universe accurate. I’ve bought the Adam and Barbara monster face hanging decor, the inflatable Sandworm for my lawn, and the “Here Lies Betelgeuse” tombstone—but never the iconic light-up sign due to the fact that it always featured the ghost with the most’s name spelled wrong.

    Here’s what I mean. On the left, the scene from Beetlejuice; on the right, the old version of the sign from Spirit Halloween:

    © WB/Spirit Halloween

    The spelling of Beetlejuice’s name has long been a point of contention. Tim Burton’s classic film spells its title Beetlejuice. But within the movie, Michael Keaton’s wisecracking dead guy always spells it “Betelgeuse.” It’s seen on the lighted sign, the tombstone, and the flyer the Maitland family finds.

    Whether it was an oversight or products simply going with the recognizable spelling, it always bugged me that the licensed replicas were technically incorrect. And in my household, we love to collect in-universe-specific items, so when we built up our Beetlejuice decor, we never bought the sign—or any other item that featured the “Beetlejuice” spelling when it should have been “Betelgeuse.”

    So you can imagine my surprise when, perusing the Spirit Halloween website, I noticed the change we film snobs have been waiting for in this, our year 2025:

    Beetlejuice Sign Correct Spirit
    © Spirit Halloween

    Here it is, the screen-accurate sign in all its glory that will finally complement the tombstone for our annual Beetlejuice display.

    Beetlejuice Sign (1)
    © Spirit Halloween

    We would like to thank whoever made this happen for looking out for the fandom. Now, of course, the hunt is on to find it at our local Spirit Halloween; good luck!

    Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.

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    Sabina Graves

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  • This year’s Halloween Horror Nights is the best iteration this decade

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    Universal Orlando Halloween Horror Nights Credit: by Seth Kubersky

    Spooky season has sneaked up on Orlando once again, as signified by the annual arrival of Universal Studios Florida’s Halloween Horror Nights. For HHN’s 34th installment, the creative team led by Mike Aiello and Lora Sauls have pulled out all the stops, delivering what I feel is the event’s strongest installment this decade. 

    I was especially impressed by the scarezones — particularly the Roaring ’20s toxic mutants in New York, the Cat Lady mini-show outside Animal Actors, and Hollywood’s vampire masquerade ball — which were markedly more menacing and story-focused than the selfie-zones of recent years. 

    The latest Nightmare Fuel pyrotechnic dance show also continues its upward evolution with a satisfying sequel to last year’s cursed circus storyline, as first-time director Charles Gray (picking up the baton from Jason Horne) punches up the pacing, tightening the integration of illusions and explosive choreography. And although I was unable to watch the new Haunt-o-Phonic fountain show, the brief glimpse I caught looked ghoulishly delightful. 

    However, most guests go to HHN for their world-famous haunted houses, and this year’s lineup of 10 terrifying mazes will present a dilemma for all but the deep-pocketed. The offerings are mostly solid, and several are spectacular, with only a few relative duds this time around. But if the posted standby wait times on opening weekend are anything to go by, my traditional goal of completing every house and show in one night without Express access may have finally become impossible to accomplish. 

    The cat appears to be out of the bag on my former “secret weapon” of Stay & Scream, with queues now opening at 4 p.m. and some exceeding two hours before the evening officially begins. 

    Even Express isn’t a panacea anymore, as it reduces your wait by roughly half but doesn’t eliminate it, and new longer pathways to and from the soundstages (necessitated by the demolition of Hollywood Rip Ride Rocket) mean even old hands at HHN will have difficulty formulating an efficient route this year. The ideal solution — assuming you can afford it — is an RIP tour, like the one I was hosted on during the opening-night media event. Thanks to our tour guide, Billie Jane, who is an award-winning local playwright-performer when she isn’t escorting VIPs at Universal, we were easily able to squeeze in all 10 mazes (plus extras) before the 2 a.m. closing.

    If you aren’t fortunate enough to get front-of-the-line privileges and are forced by long queues to pick and choose which houses to line up for, here are my totally subjective rankings of all 10, based on how many minutes I’d personally be willing to wait for another run-through.

    Universal Orlando Halloween Horror Nights Credit: by Seth Kubersky

    Be aware that your mileage will undoubtedly vary, because I base my preferences on things like the ambition and execution of the scenic artistry and special effects, the creativity and clarity of the theme, and the placement and pacing of the performers. I don’t judge how “scary” a house is, because years of working backstage have blunted my startle response, and I can no longer get spooked with a conga line of shuffling guests around me.

    Terrifier (worth 75 minutes) 

    The gallons of gore that literally drenched me in this house should force any fanboys complaining that HHN has gone “family-friendly” to STFU. I enjoyed walking through the three Terrifier films far more than watching them, thanks in large part to this cast’s expert mimicry of Art the Clown’s mime mannerisms. 

    Five Nights at Freddy’s (worth 70 minutes)

    The Easter egg-filled re-creation of Freddy Fazbear’s Pizzeria is note-perfect, from the crying child to the Springtrap mask. Unfortunately, the impressive movie-accurate animatronics and full-sized articulated puppets from Jim Henson’s Creature Shop are mostly rooted in place, which somewhat mutes their menace. 

    El Artista: A Spanish Haunting (60 minutes)

    I’m a sucker for a grand facade, and this Gothic manor (which inspired this year’s overall aesthetic) is one of Universal’s most jaw-dropping. Once inside, overhead aerial stunts, multiple Pepper’s ghosts and every other trick in the book are employed in telling a refreshingly original tale from director Ramón Paradoa that evokes Goya and Gaudí with a Faustian twist. 

    Dolls: Let’s Play Dead (worth 50 minutes)

    If Disney ever put a haunted house based on Toy Story’s Sid and Finding Nemo’s Darla inside the queue of Hollywood Studios’ Midway Mania, it might look like this. Guest-activated buttons, a playful sense of scale and imaginative environments (like the inside of an Easy-Bake Oven) make this the most entertaining house.

    WWE Presents: The Horrors of the Wyatt Sicks (worth 45 minutes)

    I stopped following professional wrestling when WWF became WWE, so add an extra 15 minutes if you’re already a fan. As a newcomer, I was unexpectedly engaged by the variety and viciousness of the characters and the verisimilitude of the backstage environments.

    Gálkn: Monsters of the North (worth 40 minutes)

    Wicker Man and Midsommar have nothing on this revenge-driven romp through a pseudo-Nordic village being ravaged by horned horrors. The best part is the “belly of the beast” finale, which features some of the event’s most relentless scareactors.

    Hatchet and Chains: Demon Bounty Hunters (worth 30 minutes)

    Old West-inspired haunts are usually winners, and this Slaughter Sinema spinoff starts strong with an actor-driven entrance and unique lava lighting. I also loved the ending’s speeding train effects and blow-off monster, but the creature designs and plot seemed somewhat muddled in the middle.

    Grave of Flesh (worth 20 minutes)

    The towering graveyard facade makes a fabulous first impression, but it goes downhill fast with repetitive dirt walls and a grab-bag of monster designs. The brief M.C. Escher-esque interlude in the middle only reminded me how badly I want HHN to have a Hellraiser II house.

    Fallout (worth 15 minutes)

    As a Fallout fan from the prehistoric era of Wasteland on my Apple IIc through to the Amazon series, this house was a shocking disappointment. The initial Vault architecture is impressive, and all the fan-service props (like Pip-Boys and Jolt Cola dispensers) are in place. But Lucy dominates too many scenes, miming to comically repetitive audio cues, while Maximus and especially the Ghoul are given shamefully short shrift before the anticlimactic ending.

    Jason Universe (worth 10 minutes) 

    I’m sure to get flamed for this take. The folks around me praised this maze’s scare factor, but the return of Jason Voorhees to HHN missed the mark for me. If too many cooks spoil the soup, then too many Jasons — mostly mid-series hockey-mask incarnations, no sign of X’s cyber-version — popping in and out of boo-holes, without any of his iconic kills or environments beyond repetitive wooded campgrounds, ultimately bored me. 

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    The threat from Florida’s top education official comes after allegations of “despicable” comments being made online by teachers.

    Artists will transform 49 parking spaces into colorful art installations

    The Honey House concept, however, will live on at Orange Tree Antiques Mall

    This article appears in Sept. 10-16, 2025.



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    Seth Kubersky
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  • The Best ’90s Pop Culture Halloween Costumes, From The Addams Family to Spice Girls

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    While each product featured is independently selected by our editors, we may include paid promotion. If you buy something through our links, we may earn commission. Read more about our Product Review Guidelines here.

    This Halloween, we’re throwing it back to the 1990s. We’ve handpicked some pop culture ’90s icons who would make, like, totally easy costumes. Think: Spice Girls; Wednesday from “The Addams Family,” and Romy and Michele from “Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion.”

    Since ’90s fashion trends are basically always in style — chunky sneakers, choker necklaces, and bucket hats — it’s refreshingly easy to DIY a perfect ’90s Halloween costume from your closet. Have bike shorts and a crewneck sweatshirt? You are now Princess Diana. Sweatpants, a crop top, and your favorite pair of sneakers? You’re a master of Sporty Spice style.

    Whether you’re a millennial who longs for the days of your youth or Gen Z who just loves all things ’90s, we have some Halloween costumes that will make you the hippest person at the party. From TV shows and movies to the hottest music acts of the time, keep reading for a ton of iconic DIY ’90s pop culture costumes that will make sure your Halloween rocks.

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    Britt Stephens

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  • Akron Boo at the Zoo refreshes for 38th year

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    AKRON, Ohio — Spooky season is just around the corner, and the Akron Zoo is putting on a new experience as “Boo at the Zoo” becomes “Boo at the Zoo: Ultimate Fall Fest.”

    What You Need To Know

    • Visitors can check out the event from Oct. 11-12, Oct. 18-19 and Oct. 25-26

    • The zoo will be open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

    • The zoo encourages guests to dress in Halloween costumes, but adults are not allowed to cover their face with costume masks, mascot heads or face paint

    Visitors can check out the event from Oct. 11-12, Oct. 18-19 and Oct. 25-26 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Members will have a Members’ Only Preview on Oct. 10 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

    Different themed areas will be scattered around the zoo including Halloween Town, Waitch’s Lair and Autumn Adventure. Visitors can participate in different fall fest activities including a potato toss, pumpkin bowling, character meet and greets and a monster show. Trick-or-treating will be held in the Enchanted Candy Trail and an Oktoberfest area will be available for adults 21-years-old and up.

    The zoo encourages guests to dress in Halloween costumes, but adults are not allowed to cover their face with costume masks, mascot heads or face paint.

    Tickets are available online for trick-or-treating with treater tickets ranging from $16-$20. Non-member observer tickets cost $13-$17. Member observers are free but require a ticket and infants under 2-years-old who do not wish to trick-or-treat can receive free admission.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Step Into The House Of Quiet By Kiersten White If You Dare

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    It’s no secret that we at THP love a good Gothic fantasy. And with Halloween in our sights, our reading list is only going to get spookier from here. Kiersten White’s new novel, The House of Quiet, fits the creepy, haunted house vibe we know you’ve been needing.

    The House of Quiet follows Birdie, a maid who infiltrates the House of Quiet in search of her sister. Rumor has it that the House of Quiet is where children go to be treated for having terrible, supernatural powers. But who knows where they go afterward?

    It’s eerie, atmospheric, and an edge-of-your-seat Gothic fantasy. Here are three of our favorite things about The House of Quiet by Kiersten White!

    The House of Quiet by Kiersten White
    Image Source: Penguin Random House

    Book Overview: The House Of Quiet

    Content warnings: death, gore, violence, attempted murder, stabbing, bodies, forced captivity, serious injury

    Summary: In the middle of a deadly bog sits the House of Quiet. It’s a place for children whose Procedure triggered powers too terrible to be lived with—their last hope for treatment. No one knows how they’re healed or where they go afterward.

    Birdie has begged, bargained, and blackmailed her way inside as a maid, determined to find her missing sister, Magpie. But what she discovers is more mysteries. Instead of the destitute children who undergo the Procedure in hopes of social advancement, the house brims with aristocratic teens wielding strange powers they never should have been burdened with.

    Though Birdie wants to ignore them, she can’t help being drawn to stoic and silent Forest, charmed by clever River, and concerned for the youngest residents. And with fellow maid Minnow keeping tabs on everything Birdie does, danger is everywhere.

    In her desperate search for Magpie, Birdie unearths terrifying threats and devastating truths, forcing her to confront just how much she’s willing to sacrifice to save her own sister. Because in the House of Quiet, if you find what’s lurking beneath . . . you lose everything.

    Unravel the mystery. Ignite the rebellion.

    Every Character Has A Role

    It may seem that some of the characters have too many screws loose to play a significant part in the plot. Or that they’re spoiled rich kids who shouldn’t complain about their situation. But no character goes wasted in The House of Quiet. From characters who take an early exit like Sky and Rabbit to the ones who never seem to be in their right mind like Nimbus and Lake, everyone pulls their weight in helping Birdie uncover the secrets of the House of Quiet.

    Birdie And Forest

    Even amidst the unknown horrors and unsettling energy in The House of Quiet, there is still room for some romance! We especially love the progression between Birdie and Forest. Forest usually keeps to himself and doesn’t utter a single word, the reason for which Birdie will later find out. Luckily, Birdie talks enough for the both of them while also sitting peacefully in each other’s company. Forest fiercely protects her from harm, and we also learn about their deeper history.

    The Ultimate Revenge

    Another one of our favorite things about The House of Quiet is the extremely justified, revenge-filled ending. Once Birdie and the rest of the residents find the heart of the house, the sinister plot all starts coming together. Why do rich families really send their children to the House of Quiet? What happens to all the residents after receiving the so-called treatment? All the adults who have kept this house running get their karma returned to them in the end.

    An atmospheric, eerie, and edge-of-your-seat Gothic fantasy, Kiersten White’s The House of Quiet deserves to be your next spooky read!

    The House of Quiet by Kiersten White comes out September 9th, and you can order a copy of it here!

    Have we lured you into reading Kiersten White’s new novel, The House of Quiet? Let us know on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram!

    Want to hear some of our audiobook recommendations? Here’s the latest!

    TO LEARN MORE ABOUT KIERSTEN WHITE:
    INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | WEBSITE

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    Julie Dam

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  • End-of-summer memes that hit harder than pumpkin spice lattes (22 Photos)

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    Ty

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  • The 16 Cutest Halloween Squishmallows That’ll Put a Spell on You This Fall—From Disney to Sanrio

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    Squishmallows is genius for creating a Halloween countdown calendar (basically a Halloween advent calendar) to celebrate the holiday. Open all 13 doors to reveal 2.5-inch Micromallows, including Livingston the Potion, Alva the Coffin, and more. This calendar is such a fun way to get pumped for October 31, whether you’re unboxing it yourself, with family, or with your roommates. Can we also talk about how each plushie costs only $3? $40 isn’t too shabby for a holiday-themed pack as big as this one. While the cal keeps getting wiped off the virtual Amazon shelves, keep checking back for a restock.

    Comes With: 13 2.5-inch Halloween-themed Micromallows

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    Katie Decker-Jacoby

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