A short guide to kids’ Halloween costumes for 2026: popular themes, where to browse them, and the safety checks worth doing before trick-or-treating.
Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. We earn a commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you. We have not tried these costumes ourselves; this guide points you to categories worth browsing and the safety basics to check.
Quick Answer
With Halloween on October 31, the fastest route is to browse by theme, then check fit and safety before you buy. Abracadabra NYC’s kids costume section groups costumes by age and theme, and its girls’ and boys’ sections narrow it further. Order early enough to allow for shipping, and check the store’s delivery estimate at checkout.
Popular Costume Themes for Kids
| Theme | Good for | Browse |
|---|---|---|
| Superheroes | Kids who want to run around in it all night | Superheroes |
| Disney characters | Younger kids and sibling groups | Disney |
| Harry Potter | School-age fans; easy to layer over warm clothes | Harry Potter |
| Super Mario Bros | Group or family costumes | Super Mario |
| Paw Patrol | Preschoolers | Paw Patrol |
| Star Wars | All ages | Star Wars |
| Spider-Man | A long-running favorite | Spider-Man |
| The Wizard of Oz | Classic group themes | Wizard of Oz |
| The Little Mermaid | Fans of the movies | Little Mermaid |
Finishing Touches
A costume often comes together with one accessory. Wings, hats, and wigs can turn everyday clothes into a costume, which also helps on a cold night when a full costume would have to go over a coat.
Safety Checklist Before Trick-or-Treating
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission publishes Halloween safety tips every year. The basics:
- Look for “flame resistant” on the label. It does not mean a costume cannot burn, but it should resist catching fire and extinguish more quickly.
- Make kids easy to see. Choose bright colors, or add reflective tape to the costume and treat bag, and carry a flashlight.
- Check the fit. Hems that drag can cause trips and falls, and shoes should fit well.
- Keep vision clear. Masks can block a child’s view; face paint or makeup is an alternative. Test any makeup on a small patch of skin first.
- Make props soft and flexible. Swords, wands, and other accessories should not have sharp points.
FAQ
When should I order a kids’ Halloween costume?
As early as you can. Shipping times vary by store and by what you choose, so check the delivery estimate at checkout before Halloween.
How do I choose the right size?
Use the size chart for the specific costume rather than your child’s clothing size, and leave room for warm layers underneath if the weather is cool where you live.
Are store-bought costumes flame resistant?
Many are labeled flame resistant, but not all. Check the label or product description, and keep kids away from candles and open flames either way.