Halloween costumes can be fun to shop for, but they are often used only once. Before buying something new this year, look in your closet, ask a friend or neighbor, or check out a local costume swap.
Costume swaps are an easy way to give a costume you no longer need another night out while finding something new-to-you for Halloween. Across central Ohio, communities and organizations are giving people more opportunities to swap, share, and find secondhand costumes this fall. Find one near you below.
Swaps & Collection Opportunities
Upper Arlington Fall Fest Costume Swap
- Donate: Sept. 22-Oct. 3
- Swap: Oct. 4, 1-5 p.m.
- Location: Fancyburg Park, 3375 Kioka Ave., Upper Arlington
Upper Arlington’s Costume Swap is part of Fall Fest, giving the community another chance to pass along gently used costumes and find something new-to-you. Additional costumes can be brought to Fall Fest on Oct. 4.
Upper Arlington Public Library Costume Swap
- Donate: Oct. 1-11
- Swap: Oct. 11, 1-3:30 p.m.
- Location: Tremont Road Branch, Youth Activity Space
Bring a gently used costume to the Upper Arlington Public Library beginning Oct. 1, then stop by the swap on Oct. 11 to find a costume for this year’s Halloween.
Reynoldsburg Costume Exchange
- Collection: Through Oct. 17
- Exchange: Oct. 16-17
- Location: Reynoldsburg City Hall, 7232 E. Main St., Reynoldsburg
Reynoldsburg is collecting gently used costumes ahead of its Costume Exchange. Bring a costume to pass along, then stop by the exchange to find something new-to-you for Halloween.
Hosting a costume swap or exchange that you don’t see here? Email [email protected] and we’ll add it to the list.
Reusing costumes can save money and help you get more use out of the things you already have.
A costume doesn’t have to stay exactly the same from one person to the next. A dress can become a witch costume, a suit can become a detective, or a few accessories can completely change an outfit. You can also mix and match pieces from your closet with something you find at a swap or secondhand store.
When you are finished with a costume, think twice before putting it in the trash. If it is still in good condition, pass it along so someone else can give it another night out. Happy swapping!
