A poll of 2,000 UK parents finds Halloween is now the second most popular family event of the year, just behind Christmas.
Families plan to spend an average of £285 and nearly 23 hours preparing for the day.
The study revealed 72 per cent of parents go "all out," dressing up, trick-or-treating, and hosting parties.
Planning includes almost three hours sourcing costumes and nearly three hours buying and preparing themed food.
Halloween: How UK families are celebrating
One in five parents are hosting a Halloween party this year, with apple bobbing and hot dogs among the most popular treats. Around 27 per cent plan a special dinner at home, and 46 per cent are splashing out on treats for those staying in.
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Gemma Serdet, senior brand manager for Herta, said: "Halloween has become a firm fixture in the calendar for UK families, and it's no longer just about trick or treating. Parents are leaning into the celebrations with everything from costumes to decorations and – most importantly – food."
The research found families spend on average £32 on fancy dress, £20 on pumpkins, and £30 on themed food. Despite this, nine in ten still want celebrations to be affordable.
Popular games for parties include a Halloween treasure hunt (48 per cent), ghoulish charades (47 per cent), and 'Pass the Pumpkin' (41 per cent), with hosts expecting around 14 guests per event.
Gemma Serdet added: "Whether families are choosing to attend or host a party this Halloween, there's a real demand for fun, affordable, and easy-to-make themed food. It's also a great chance for families to enjoy quality time together and get creative in the kitchen."
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