How to Buy Vintage Halloween Decorations

Vintage Halloween decorations can add a touch of glamour and intrigue to your Halloween parties and get-togethers. They are also a great option if you want your Halloween party to have a particular decorative theme—witches, for example, or skeletons. Here are some tips for buying vintage Halloween decorations.

1. Online retailers

By far, the widest selection of vintage Halloween decorations can be found at online retailers. Many retailers offer their products online, and there are also 100% online Halloween businesses. Vintage decorations are popular, however, so be sure to shop early! Pay attention to shipping fees and the estimated arrival dates of decorations so that you are sure to have them on time for any parties.

2. eBay           

Like so many other things, vintage Halloween decorations can be found and purchased on eBay. Savvy e-Bay users wait until August or September to post Halloween decorations for sale. Look for items with photographs and be wary of generic manufacturer photographs of items, as these give no indication of the item’s condition.

3. Craigslist

Your local Craigslist (the online classified ad website) can be a great place to find vintage Halloween decorations. Many people put seasonal decorations up for sale as they pull them out of the closet and decide to go a different route with their decorating this year. Craigslist is known for having odd items, so if you are looking for something unique, this might be the place!

4. Your local shop

Halloween stores open all over the country at the end of summer. These stores often have everything Halloween-related, including costumes and decorations. Many carry vintage decorations for your event. A local store offers the advantage of being able to view items you may want to purchase up close and take some of the guesswork out of online shopping. However, your selection will be a bit more limited (particularly as you get closer to Halloween!) so be sure to shop early. If you drop by several months in advance, some Halloween stores may be able to special order items that you need.

5. Friends and family

If you are planning a Halloween party on a budget, consider borrowing vintage Halloween decorations from friends. Throw a party together and relieve yourself from bearing all the work alone! Buy one or two central vintage decoration pieces and borrow the rest. With a few cobwebs and carved pumpkins thrown in the mix, your party can be a success with minimal effort or expense!