Spirit Halloween has spoken, and according to the seasonal retail giant, 2026 costumes will be driven by blockbuster fandoms, gaming, mythology, horror and the kind of internet-fueled chaos that turns into a meme before Halloween night is over.
The company released its annual trend forecast this week, laying out the looks it expects to dominate stores, parties and social feeds this spooky season. Spirit says its team tracks pop culture, entertainment, gaming, nostalgia and online trends throughout the year to identify what shoppers are likely to want once October arrives.
“People often ask how we predict Halloween trends. The reality is we’re watching them develop all year long,” said Kym Sarkos, executive vice president of Spirit Halloween. “From blockbuster entertainment and gaming to social media and nostalgia, our team is constantly tracking what’s capturing attention so we can be ready with the looks fans want most.”
Among the biggest predictions is the continued rise of K-pop Demon Hunters, which Spirit says remains a fan favorite after breaking out last year. The retailer also expects superhero looks to surge again, fueled by Spider-Man: Brand New Day and Power Rangers, with masks, capes and tech-heavy suits spanning adults, kids and pets.
Toy Story is also back in the mix, with Woody, Buzz, Jessie and Slinky Dog positioned as family-group costume favorites. Elsewhere, Spirit is betting on varsity jackets, licensed jerseys and romantic-campus aesthetics inspired by the Off Campus phenomenon.
The company also sees mythology and fantasy expanding beyond niche fandoms. Greek-inspired armor, cloaks and accessories are expected to have a strong year, along with dragon-rider looks, rogue adventurers and fantasy costumes drawing from titles like Dungeon Crawler Carl.
Gaming remains another major driver. Spirit is highlighting Fortnite and Halo as two of the franchises likely to inspire some of the season’s most recognizable character looks.
Then there is the category that never really disappears: horror. Spirit says slashers, viral internet monsters and newer horror properties will continue to anchor Halloween, while oversized inflatables, giant mascot heads and absurd novelty costumes are expected to keep the comedy side of the holiday alive.
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The retailer is also leaning into Halloween as a year-round identity rather than a one-night event. Horror-themed apparel, graphic tees, and streetwear are part of the company’s broader push toward fans who want to wear the aesthetic long after Oct. 31.
Taken together, Spirit’s forecast points to a Halloween season where pop culture and fandom are doing most of the heavy lifting – with ancient gods, superheroes, demon hunters, and video game characters all competing for attention.
