October is one of the most exciting months of the year. The weather is colder but not freezing. Pumpkin spice everything is out in stores. The leaves start to change colors. And most of all- Halloween. Halloween is an exciting holiday as it’s the one time a year you can dress up as someone (or something) opposite of you.

Halloween also means scary movies, haunted houses, and decorating pumpkins. There’s an endless list of things you can do for Halloween, but sometimes that list can get a bit pricey. So, if you’re looking to get into the Halloween spirit without breaking the bank, here are some fun and affordable Halloween festive activities:

Pumpkin patch

Visiting a pumpkin patch is the perfect way to get into the Halloween spirit because it’s fun and exciting but cheap. Actual pumpkin picking is pretty cheap, as is hopping on a quick hayride around the patch. And save yourself a few dollars by eating at home and not buying the expensive food they serve at the patch!

Decorate pumpkins

Decorating pumpkins doesn’t have to be expensive! You can pick up a cheap pumpkin carving kit from a store and use that, or use arts and crafts supplies lying around the house to really get creative with your pumpkin. Paint, sharpies, and markers would work great to decorate your pumpkin just how you like it.

Watch scary movies

Cuddling on the couch watching a scary movie with a bowl of popcorn and your best friends is 100% free and 100% the best time ever. Watching scary movies is totally free, especially since there are tons of channels broadcasting Halloween movies throughout the entire month of October.

Make pumpkin spice food

No need to spend extra money on pre-made pumpkin spice food when you can make it in the comfort of your own home! All you need to make a pumpkin dish is some pumpkin pie seasoning and maybe some pumpkin purée. Check out these pumpkin spice inspired recipes.

Roast s’ mores

All you need to roast s’ mores by the fire is graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate… and fire and your group of best friends. I don’t know about you, but roasting s’ mores by the fire is one of my favorite things to do this time of year and gets me into the Halloween spirit without fail.

Have a bonfire

A bonfire with your friends and families is one of the most comforting things you do in the fall. And to make it even more spooky and Halloween festive, go around and have a contest of who can tell their best ghost stories.

DIY Halloween costumes

It’s no secret that Halloween costumes get can super expensive. But there’s no need to buy the pricey costumes you see in the Halloween store when you have everything you need right in your closet. You might need to make a quick stop at a craft store to get creative, but making your Halloween costume is 10x more creative and more fun than buying something from the store.