Spooky but Safe: Outdoor Lighting Hacks for Trick-or-Treat Night

Halloween’s around the corner, and that means one thing for homeowners — your front yard is about to become the neighborhood’s main stage.

Whether you go all out with fog machines and skeletons or keep things simple with a few glowing pumpkins, one thing matters most: making it fun and safe for all the little ghosts and superheroes headed your way.

Here are a few easy lighting tricks (no treats required) to help you pull it off:

1. Light the path, not the sky.

You don’t need floodlights that could double as UFO beacons. Instead, focus light where feet go — along pathways, steps, and driveways. Solar or battery-powered stake lights work great and save you from cords and tripping hazards.

2. Swap spooky for smart.

If you have smart bulbs or plugs, schedule your lights to turn on right at dusk. No scrambling last minute, and it keeps your house looking festive and welcoming even if you’re out walking with your own trick-or-treater.

3. Glow with the flow.

Use different layers of light — porch sconces, jack-o’-lanterns, lanterns, or string lights — to create a warm, inviting glow. Orange, amber, or soft white tones feel cozy and fit the Halloween mood without blinding anyone.

4. Avoid the horror of tangled cords.

If you’re running extension cords, keep them tucked away and taped down. No one wants to be the house where Batman face-plants on the sidewalk.

5. Think safety, then spooky.

Flameless candles are your best friend. They give the same flicker without the fire risk — especially in paper lanterns or pumpkins filled with dry leaves.

6. Keep it neighbor-friendly.

After the candy rush ends, dim or switch off the décor lights so they’re not glowing into the wee hours. Your neighbors (and your power bill) will thank you.

A little thought goes a long way in keeping your yard festive and safe.

So light up your walkway, hang those twinkle strands, and let the night feel just the right amount of spooky — the kind that ends with full candy buckets and happy kids.

Happy haunting, friends.

Love you, mean it.

—Annie