MISHAWAKA — Despite a tough economy, consumers are spending more money on Halloween this year. From costumes and candy to haunted houses — the holiday can get expensive, but local business owners who invested a lot of money in the holiday say it's paying off.
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According to the National Retail Federation, consumers are celebrating to forget the stressful parts of their life like high gas prices, the slumping economy and an uncertain stock market.
As the country spirals toward economic recession, few consumers are holding back for Halloween.
"When people become depressed or down or frustrated they spend more money to feel better," said St. Joseph County Skream Park developer Rick Singleton.
Thousands of people are paying up to $30 to go through the new Skream Park on McKinley Highway and Capital Avenue. Costumes at Fun F/X in Mishawaka start at $10.
"I guess I'm surprised that it's so strong as it is," said Fun F/X owner Victor Cao. "A lot of people don't care about the prices."
Cao opened Fun F/X 19 years ago. He says this year, people are waiting until the last minute to buy costumes, but his profits are higher than ever.
That's not to say the past few months have been a breeze for Cao. He started buying his inventory for Halloween last December.
"Even in the early part of the year we had to determine 'OK, are gas prices going to affect it? Is the economy going to affect it?
Some customers say they are spending less this year.
"I told them when we walked in I was only going to spend $20," said Donna Fredericks.
Others say they're not.
"[I'm] not going to let it get in the way," said Cindy Szul. "We want to go out and have a great time."
Regardless, the bottom line for local Halloween stores and haunted houses is well into the black.
"There's always been talk that Halloween is somewhat recession- proof because people still like to have a good time," said Cao.
Singleton says he's expecting several thousand people this weekend.
A Nielson report says Americans are expected to spend $1.9 billion on Halloween candy this year. But looking ahead to the holiday season, the National Retail Federation says many shoppers will be spending less on gifts this year.
