The Goodwill® Halloween Survey Reveals a Jump in 2026 Celebration Plans and Thrift-Store Shopping Trends
FORT WORTH, TEXAS (October 7, 2026) – Goodwill Halloween shoppers are embracing creativity, affordability and sustainability this season, and many are turning to thrift stores to make it happen.
According to new research commissioned by Goodwill, 85% of surveyed costume shoppers plan to incorporate thrift shopping or DIY elements into their Halloween costume this year. The survey also found that 60% primarily create DIY costumes, while 71% are looking for costumes that can be reused or repurposed beyond Halloween.
As consumers look for ways to celebrate without overspending, thrift stores are becoming a go-to destination for Halloween inspiration. More than half (53%) of respondents said saving money is a key reason they shop thrift stores for Halloween, while 44% shop thrift stores to create DIY costumes and 44% do so to find unique costume pieces.
At Goodwill North Central Texas, shoppers can discover one-of-a-kind costume ideas, accessories, home décor and DIY materials while supporting programs that help people in the community build skills and achieve their employment goals.
“Halloween is one of the best times of year to get creative,” said Shay Gipson, Vice President of Community Engagement. “Whether you’re building a costume from scratch, decorating your home or looking for a unique finishing touch, Goodwill offers affordable finds that help bring ideas to life. Every purchase also supports our mission of providing education, training and job placement for people with barriers to employment.”
The research also found that 72% of respondents plan to incorporate thrift or DIY elements into their Halloween decorations, highlighting a growing interest in creating personalized celebrations while giving items a second life.
Shoppers can find costumes, clothing, accessories, home décor, craft supplies and other Halloween treasures at Goodwill North Central Texas locations throughout the Fort Worth and surrounding area. For store locations, hours and additional Halloween inspiration, visit www.GoodwillNorthCentralTexas.org/shop.
ABOUT THE GOODWILL HALLOWEEN SURVEY
The 2026 Goodwill Halloween Survey was conducted online among 2,000 U.S. adults ages 18-64 who buy, make, design or assemble Halloween costumes for themselves. The survey explored consumer preferences, shopping habits and attitudes related to Halloween costumes, décor and thrift shopping.
About Goodwill North Central Texas
Goodwill is more than a thrift store. The largest employer of people with disabilities in the world, Goodwill provides education, training and job placement and believes that it’s worth celebrating!
Goodwill North Central Texas is based in Fort Worth and serves 18 counties in the region. The nonprofit’s 27 area retail locations provide revenue through the sale of donated goods to support Goodwill’s mission to CREATE lives of independence and BUILD a stronger local community. Education, training and job placement programs for individuals with disabilities, the formerly incarcerated, at-risk youth, our veterans and people experiencing homelessness are guided by the organization’s vision of a North Central Texas where every person has the opportunity for maximum independence and abundant living. For more information, please visit www.GoodwillNorthCentralTexas.org.
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