Last-Minute Shoppers Flood Goodwill Racks as Halloween Spending Tops $13.5 Billion
Goodwill Industries of South Mississippi reports hundreds of visitors this week, while the National Retail Federation predicts a record national outlay for the holiday.
By Mei Lin ·
Halloween shoppers in Ocean Springs, Mississippi, are turning to secondhand retailers to keep holiday costs low. Goodwill Industries of South Mississippi has seen a surge in foot traffic as consumers search for costumes and decorations before the holiday arrives on Saturday.
The National Retail Federation projects total Halloween spending will reach a record $13.5 billion nationwide this year. Costumes represent a major portion of that total as families balance seasonal traditions with household budgets.
Local customer Christian Stelly visited the store at opening time to find a budget-friendly outfit for her daughter. "We don’t have a lot of money for the Halloween season," Stelly said. "So, Goodwill is always a good option for me to find something cheap."
Katie Myers, marketing manager for Goodwill, noted that the store has received hundreds of visitors this week. "Since Halloween’s on Saturday this year, the whole week has been super busy," Myers said. She added that proceeds from sales support workforce development programs on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
Shoppers are browsing racks of secondhand costumes and seasonal items to avoid high retail prices. The store remains stocked for those who have not yet purchased their outfits.
The holiday falls on October 31, 2026. Retailers across the region are preparing for the final weekend of shopping before the date.
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