Holiday

How To Create A Festive Halloween Night The Whole Family Can Enjoy

Carve Out Family Time

I can’t be the only one who has already consumed an uncomfortable (and somewhat horrifying) amount of “fun-sized” Milk Duds, Twizzlers, and Heath Bars this month. I like to think I’m just feeling “festive”. In fact, there is just something about Halloween. Maybe it’s the feeling that Halloween is sort of the kickoff to the holiday season or maybe it’s the idea that we’ll get an extra hour very soon when we “fall back” with Daylight Savings Time. Who doesn’t need an extra hour of sleep?

I believe the key to really enjoying yourself and your family on Halloween is not only keeping it festive, but keeping it simple. Whether you’re hosting family and friends, carving pumpkins or answering the doorbell non-stop, it can be a busy night! Nobody wants to spend hours in the kitchen, missing out on trick-or-treaters and family fun. Here’s how to create a festive Halloween without too much effort so you can really enjoy the night and your family! It starts with an easy dinner…

If you’re looking for elegant and neutral fall décor, we found some great pieces here.

Halloween family fun, turkey chili, festive Halloween night, how to have a festive and easy Halloween night

Simple, but GOOD Turkey Chili

Chili really is the perfect meal for Halloween night. It can be made ahead. It stays warm on the stove so everyone can eat at different times if need be. And, it’s hearty enough for the most dedicated of trick-or-treaters. There are a million recipes out there so which one do you choose? How about one that is flavorful AND very easy? You won’t be spending a ton of time in the kitchen which is key to actually enjoying yourself!

Halloween family fun, turkey chili, festive Halloween night, how to have a festive and easy Halloween night

Toppings & More

This is a very mild, kid-friendly, turkey chili but you can add some hot sauce to spice it up! For a vegetarian option, you can omit the turkey and add a can of black beans. Be sure to have a plentiful spread of toppings–get creative. The toppings really make this dinner a bit more special and in my experience, kids love it. Here are some suggestions:

  • Freshly grated cheddar cheese, cotija cheese, Monterey Jack
  • Diced red onion, white onion, scallions
  • Diced peppers, jalapenos, corn, avocado slices, cilantro, tomatoes, pico de gallo, lime, radish
  • Sour cream, salsa, hot sauce
  • Fritos Scoops, potato chips, cornbread, biscuits, tortillas, crackers

Keep scrolling for some festive serving pieces and Halloween décor!

Do you have any special Halloween traditions? What are you doing to keep it festive this year? Let me know in the comments below. Have a safe and happy Halloween!

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Serving Time

I have this exact Dutch oven--it's my go-to for chili night. It's just as amazing as more expensive brands, but a fraction of the cost. It also comes in 20+ colors. You'll need several small bowls for all the toppings and these ramekins are just the right size. I prefer “fall” over “Halloween” themed dinnerware so I can use the same pieces for Thanksgiving too.
Cast Iron Dutch Oven
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Staub White Pumpkin Cocotte
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Chili Bowls
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Remekins
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Pumpkin Stoneware Tureen
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Pumpkin Bowls & Tureen
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Leaf Serving Platter
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Halloween Décor

Don't forget some Halloween décor to keep things festive. I own this 5-foot posable skeleton and the hanging bats and I look forward to putting them out each year. They are just the right amount of spooky for my entryway! I just purchased the yoga skeletons...cute, right? The figurines are more substantial than I thought--made of resin and are hand-painted. They make me smile.
60PCS Halloween 3D Bats
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Spider Web Runners (Set of 2)
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5′ Posable Skeleton
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Yoga Skeletons
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