A POP CULTURE GIRLS GUIDE TO HALLOWEEN IN SYDNEY
Calling all spooky baddies, this is your warning that Halloween (31st October) is on a Saturday this year!!!
What does this mean? Well, for some of us - we celebrate the Halloween season from August. For most, it’s all about the parties that happen across the closest weekend. Since my favourite day of the year falls on a Saturday, there’s even more events than usual to get you in the spirit!
I can think of nothing better than spending the night celebrating and waking up with a ton of treats leftover to enjoy on Sunday before returning to reality.
I have recounted my years of experience and scoured the crevices of the internet to put together a guide for all of my fellow ghosts, ghouls and witches.
I’ve put together a list of events and experiences. There’s something for all ages, in areas that span across Sydney and the Illawarra.
Not only that, I also have my list of go-to stores that I visit when I need some seriously haunted retail therapy. This includes a list of Australian small businesses that I absolutely adore - because shopping small and supporting local artists is what hot ghouls do!!!
Without further ado, let’s get into it.
MAJOR RETAIL STORES
TK Maxx, Roni’s & Costco
A Little Bit of Everything
Roni’s
I fear I must admit that after waiting YEARS to visit a Spirit Halloween in the states, I finally walked in just to be like “oh, half of this is at Roni’s” - There are a few stores scattered across the state and everyone I know that loves Halloween cannot wait for Roni’s to set up their display every year. Roni’s really is what will lift my spooky spirits up after a long day. They have everything - from Mehron SFX Make-up to costumes, candy and animatronics.
TK Maxx
As an early adapter of the joy of TK Maxx, I am overjoyed with how they’re evolved over the last few years. Each store has different stock, so it’s a constant mystery as to what you’ll find and I THRIVE off the chase. Bedsheets, decor, bath towels, hair accessories, pillows, photo frames - you name it - there are endless options. TK Maxx is what resembles shopping in the U.S. the closest.
Kmart
Kmart does increase its game slowly every year - but it’s a great spot for varied basics. They have dishware, crafts and kids costumes as well as some beauty items and an annual spooky tee of a different theme every year!
Decorations
The Reject Shop
Personally, I believe that The Reject Shop is the underdog at the best of times. I LOVE browsing the store in general because their themed collections throughout the year are amazing. During the Halloween season though, The Reject Shop is a hidden gem. I have pieces that I bought years ago that are still holding up wonderfully and I find they have a great selection of novelty earrings too!
Daiso
In my experience, Daiso were one of the first stores that stocked a decent collection of items. Majority of what I got early on in my decor journey (10+ years ago) were items from there and the pieces still hold up til this day.
Bunnings
Bunnings is one that definitely keeps slipping past my radar because they offer more outdoor decorations that don’t quite fit my needs. If you’re looking for lighting, inflatables and animatronics - this is your place! My favourite items are their Halloween Bunnings bucket and the Arlec Halloween extension cables, zip ties and power boards.
https://www.bunnings.com.au/search/products?page=1&q=halloween&sort=BoostOrder
The Base Warehouse
Similarly to Roni’s, Base is a local hidden gem. It has everything you can imagine and you can get lost in all the aisles. The Base Warehouse is a great option if you’re planning for a party or for trick-or-treaters.
https://thebasewarehouse.com.au
Costco
Costco wins my heart mainly for the reason that they start displaying their stock from July. They have over-sized animatronics and intricate home decor statues and candy. Lots and lots of assorted bags of lollies. There’s also a small selection of kids costumes. Even though Costco is a members only warehouse, their Halloween decorations can sell out before October even hits.
https://www.costco.com.au/Occasions/Halloween/c/cos_40.1
Wellness & Home
Dusk
Dusk is known for their gothic, witchy decor and candles that release every September. I always want at least five of everything. One of their most notable products are the bleeding pillar candles - they start out solid black and as the candle melts, red wax drips down. It is so unbelievably cool to watch.
https://www.dusk.com.au/halloween
IKEA
I’ve checked IKEA for YEARS, hoping that we’d get a taste of the Halloween range I’d seen at international stores. This year we finally have something! The items actually hit stores quite early in comparison to everywhere else locally, and I love that. The glass ghost bowl is so gorgeous and my favourite piece from the collection.
https://www.ikea.com/au/en/cat/kustfyr-collection-700668/?page=2
Bath and Body Works
The Australian stores always get stock so late compared to America, it feels like the wait is even longer than it actually is. I will say, the website got the products quite a while before the stores did. Now that it’s here - I will say some of the products were worth the wait. We didn’t get any of the Nightmare Before Christmas collection that flew off shelves overseas, buuuut we did get some really pretty candle pedestals and i’ll take that as a win.
https://www.bathandbodyworks.com.au/search?q=halloween
Lush
Lush has always been, and always will be that ghoul. Their seasonal Halloween drop is one of my most highly anticipated events of the year and it never fails to disappoint. Their bath bombs will forever be a spooky staple in my bathroom. Just imagine, the sun has set - you light a fresh candle, turn on purple fairy lights, throw in a Lush bath bomb and press play on Practical Magic and let the world slip away. Bliss.
https://www.lush.com/au/en/c/halloween
William Sonoma
Every time I step into William Sonoma, I text my mum “this is the kind of old lady I’m going to be”. For context, William Sonoma is a premium, elevated kitchenware store. It’s somewhere my bank balance and I have no business being. Their Halloween range is typically takes more of a minimalist approach. The sophisticated details are to die for. Their annual release also typically includes items with characters from It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown and who doesn’t want a little snoopy in their lives?!
https://www.williams-sonoma.com.au/sale/limited-time-offers/seasonal-deals
Products from Lush
Costumes & Merchandise
Dangerfield
As an alt girly, half my wardrobe is from Dangerfield at this point. Some years they release a dedicated Halloween collected - but their Black Friday brand is my go-to all throughout the year.
Costume Box
I’ve been on the costume box website countless times, and honestly I didn’t know they were an Australian company. Their range of products truly is beyond what I could ever comprehend to be possible - so if you need a costume, I highly recommend.
Miniso
Miniso stores have absolutely exploded in the last few years - mainly thanks to their haste in jumping head first into the blind box phenomenon. Every year is varied, but they’re Halloween collection is always so cute and can include items such as keychains, craft kits, novelty cups, plushies and cards.
Pandora
I first started my Pandora collection just over ten years ago, and if you told me then that I’d look forward to their annual Halloween charm releases - I honestly wouldn’t be able to imagine it. I love the direction that they’ve started to take in recent years, their Talisman charms were so different for them and I love all of them so much. They have new Nightmare Before Christmas rings and charms this year, alongside other spooky symbols - my favourite being the Pumpkin Scarecrow Dangle Charm. How they got such small, intricate details perfect - I just don’t understand.
https://au.pandora.net/en/search?q=halloween
JB Hi-Fi
Other than the obvious availability of DVDs, Blu-Ray and games that can be purchased at JB, I actually have found a unique range of Universal Monsters merchandise in store and truly nothing feels like halloween more that that. These items include t-shirts AND plush bag charms!!!! I was stoked to stumble across the bag charms and I hope you think they’re as cute as I do.
https://www.jbhifi.com.au/search?query=universal%20monsters
Crafts
Coles / Woolworths / Aldi / Big W
Our main stores don’t offer too much, unfortunately. The items start to appear about 5-6 weeks out. My favourite items typically are any dishes or mugs they release. There are still varied options for decorating and crafts which is so helpful if you live in a more rural area.
https://www.coles.com.au/offers/halloween?pid=homepage_cat_explorer_halloween
https://www.woolworths.com.au/shop/explore/halloween
https://www.bigw.com.au/halloween/c/82
Spotlight
Honestly, Spotlight is my go-to for most things on an average day. During the Halloween season they have fabric, costumes, decorations, crafts and so much more.
https://www.spotlightstores.com/en-au/halloween
AUSTRALIAN SMALL BUSINESSES
Fox & Cactus, Deadly Sins Cosmetics & Devil’s Bath Parlour
Beauty & Apparel
Deadly Sins Cosmetics
I was looking for a new brand of matte, liquid lipstick and I stumbled upon Deadly Sins Cosmetics. The packaging is so spooky and cute that I wish I could order just to receive mail from them! I tested one of their lipsticks out and it was in fact exactly what I was looking for, and it felt super comfortable to wear and it took quite a while for me to need to reapply. A new favourite brand for sure.
https://deadlysinscosmetics.com
Blackmilk
Anyone that knows me, knows that I will literally countdown to Blackmilk’s Halloween release. There still is no other company that does it the same. Every piece of clothing i’ve ever ordered is so comfortable and all pieces stand the test of time. They’ve come so far from their galaxy tights and I cannot wait to see what’s next for them.
Edenki
I met Eden at a convention a few years ago now, and it became so obvious how much heart and soul goes into every piece of jewelry and decor made. Everything is so beautifully done that I just end up staring at their display at every convention.
Beserk
If I could choose any store for me to walk around and shop in - it would be Beserk. They stock so many of my favourite alt brands like Killstar, Demonia, Blackcraft and Foxblood. Now they make their own range of merchandise too, the plushies are sooooo cute!!! Their processing and shipping is super fast and I think we should all be their super-fans so they open a store for us all to go look at their pretty things and then buy them.
The Oodie
Even though Australia’s now approaching the summer months, The Oodie just dropped a Beetlejuice collection and I won’t lie - it looks incredible.
Wellness & Home
Devil’s Bath Parlour
I discovered DBP at an Oddities expo a few years ago and since then, I truly don’t want any other brand to be apart of my shower routine. If I start to run low on something, I order a restock for myself because I just don’t want to be without! My favourites are the Sea Witch salt scrub and the Lilith body oil.
https://www.devilsbathparlour.com.au
Cheeky Winx
Cheeky Winx have released a couple of Halloween grip socks that can be used for pilates, barre or other varied activities. I ordered some last year, and I’m waiting for this year’s order to arrive. The socks are so comfortable and stay in place throughout my entire workout and are way more appealing than everything you can find in-store. I didn’t think a pair of socks would have me looking forward to a work out, but here we are.
Ivy and Wood
My favourite fact that I’ve come across about the Ivy and Wood brand is that they collaborate with different Australian artists to create the imagery for their candles - that’s the coolest thing ever. Their Halloween collection looks so cozy and inviting.
Who Gives A Crap
You’ll find paper towels, toilet paper, tissues and garbage bags. Their spooky edition will help decorate your bathroom, and support a good cause! 50% of profits from sales are donated to help everyone gain access to clean water.
Meltdown Studio
I just discovered this brand and I’m already obsessed. Do I need cool matchboxes? No. Do I now WANT cool matchboxes? Absolutely. There’s such diverse range of unique gifts for people that love colour and all things whimsical.
https://www.meltdownstudio.com.au
Cosmic Witch Society
Where you’ll find makeup, scents and all things to make your home cozy and enchanted. I can’t wait to order from them soon!
https://www.cosmicwitchsociety.com
Sage Pig Collection
The Sage Pig offers you comfort through a weighted, plush companion that is there with you through it all. I’ve seen them grow over the years and I love each product release more and more. One of my best friends swears by their products - if you need comfort and healing and like cute things, I think you’ll love them. They’ve just announced a new pre-order for a new collection, so jump on it!
https://sagepigcollection.com.au
Sticky
My parents used to take me to the Sticky store in Bondi when I was little, and since then they’ve moved to The Rocks. Now, I love taking my friends to show them how magical it is. Multiple times a week you can see them make their famous hard candy live in store, and they always have themed limited edition candies. Their Halloween collection is online now!
Office & Decor
Fox & Cactus
I love stationary, and I love fun, colourful, themed things. Fox & Cactus finds a unique balance of being practical and pretty to look at. I’ve ordered from them for years and they just get more innovative and iconic. Aside from the store, Emma’s antics on the Fox & Cactus instagram stories always have me glued to my phone with the craziness that happens there.
Dreamy Moons
I purchased a Dreamy Moons journal bundle at the start of the year and sometimes I just stare at how beautiful the artwork is. There is such pride and care taken into the creation of each product and order. This may not be strictly halloween related but it is witchy and full of magic.
Insect Mother
If you are into entomology, or just a fan of cool bugs - Insect Mother makes some really intricate, beautiful decor pieces.
Midnight Ritual Decor
If you’re in search for some medieval, whimsical looking little dudes, this is the place for you! I love their silly little guys, and I think you will too.
https://www.midnightritual.com.au
Craft Club
There is no craft kit safe from me and my late night doom-scrolling. I want to try everything. I adore their Halloween collection this year. The kits are emphasising a classic halloween colour palette and it’s so bright and fun.
https://www.craftclubco.com/en-au
EVENTS
Popmart, Skyline Drive-In, IKEA
Family Friendly Spooks
Blacktown Drive In
When: 30 October - 1 November
This is my number one recommendation!!!!! The Skyline Drive-In in Blacktown has been one of my favourite places for decades. A few years ago, I watched Trick ‘r Treat on Halloween and I didn’t expect just how much they’d pull all the stops out. There were decorations everywhere, and all the staff were in costumes. I’m a little sad i’m not actually in Sydney for Halloween this year because I love the line-up they’ve chosen for the weekend.
Oct 30: Hocus Pocus
Oct 31: Coco, Nightmare on Elm Street
Nov 1: Hotel Transylvania
https://www.eventcinemas.com.au/cinema/drive-in-blacktown#date=2026-10-30The Halloween Market & Ghost In The Rocks
When: 29 October - 1 November
The four day festival in The Rocks has really taken on a life of its own. Every year it just gets bigger and better. There’s immersive dining experiences, live entertainment, a Halloween market full of oddities, horror film screenings and so much more.
Spookfest at Science Space Wollongong
When: October 30
There isn’t much information about this event but if you’re into things science and spooky, this is for you.
https://whatsoninwollongong.com.au/events/spookfest-science-space/
Spooks Express
When: October 31
All aboard! Located in the Illawarra, ticket holders are invited for an evening of train rides on the Spooks Express.
https://ilrms.com.au/event/spooks-express/
Build A Bear
Every year Build A Bear releases new limited edition toys for anyone to enjoy. If you’re a Sanrio and Halloween fan - you get the best crossover here!
The Grounds of Alexandria
It’s no secret that The Grounds are innovators of what they do. Every display I’ve seen has been mind-blowing. Currently, they have a Winnie The Pooh installation in celebration of our favourite silly ol’ bear being around for 100 years. I did spy a pumpkin patch as part of their install 👀.
https://thegrounds.com.au/whats-on/disneys-winnie-the-pooh/#gallery
Festival of Fisher’s Ghost
When: 29 October - 8 November
Maybe this is the scariest event of all…considering it is in Campbelltown.
All jokes aside, Fisher’s Ghost brings a packed schedule every year and this year it’s even bigger. There’s a whole day dedicated to kids trick or treating. There’s a carnival, market stalls and parade. There’s so much happening that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Note: Make sure to check with your local shopping centre to see what events and promotions they have on.
A Little More Intense
Hallowscream
When: 29-31 October
I, myself am a Halloween Horror Nights girl, ironically i’ve attended more Halloween events in LA than in Sydney - so I can’t exactly rate the Luna Park experience. However, I’ve been to Luna Park for Stranger Things events and they turn up the atmosphere! Hallowscream will surely leave you with unforgettable memories.
https://www.lunaparksydney.com/events/halloscream
Halloween Ghost Hunting
When: 31 October
It feels like half of Sydney is haunted to be honest, and Ghost tours run all year round. It is on my bucket list of experiences buuuut I just haven’t gotten around to it yet. Ghost hunting ON Halloween honestly sounds so fun.
https://www.ghosttours.com.au/halloween-tours/
Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy
When: 3 October 2026 - 23 January 2027
Events like this often float around online but I will say the ad for the Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy really caught my attention. I don’t drink alcohol so I don’t think I’ll find value in the ticket price but I know many of my friends would adore this experience.
https://feverup.com/m/651994?srsltid=AU7gw4XHnCv4ovSRfHiLt4xnuVS4JA8bfo2wjS2JJa8ZCNam-LcFPiM6
Halloween Drag Bingo
When: 21 October (Moorebank) & 29 October (Riverwood)
I think the mix of drag queens and bingo was a genius idea, but making it spooky?! Sign me UP!
https://moorebanksports.com.au/events/drag-bingo-3/
https://www.clubrivers.com.au/event/drag-bingo/
Dracula: Ballet at its Darkest
When: 7 - 29 November
This event takes place after October, but I love to know there’s still something haunting happening. My favourite theatre in Sydney - The Capitol Theatre - is hosting the season of the Dracula ballet. The detailed architecture of the building is so beautiful, I can only imagine how stunning it will be with such a chilling performance.
https://www.capitoltheatre.com.au/dracula-ballet-at-its-darkest
Zombie Zumba
When: 28 October
I love this unique option of a zombie inspired Zumba class! I wish they were running all month long to be honest. Everyone has to keep their cardio levels up in preparation for a possible apocalypse right?!
https://whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/events/zombie-zumba-zumba-with-pawel-halloween-special
Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics
When: 30 October
If you’re in the mood to have a more relaxed weekend but still are in the mood to hit the town, this is a perfect option. On the tentative program are songs from classics like Scooby-Doo, The Addams Family, Knives Out and Stranger Things.
Little Frankie’s Tattoo Co.
I know, I know - getting a tattoo is a little extreme for the season. However, when I visited Little Frankie’s CBD location I was surprised to find prints, stickers and totes featuring designs by their artists. I think this a unique approach to adding a touch of something whimsical and witchy to your space.
https://www.littlefrankiestattoo.com
So…what’s next? We still have some major cinema releases to round out the year, and we have Hilary Duff’s The Lucky Me tour hitting Australian shores! That’s where you’ll find me.