🎃 60+ Boo Basket Ideas for Kids That’ll Kickstart Halloween Fun!
Halloween excitement is bubbling over in our house—and this year, we’re starting the fun early with Boo Baskets!
These Halloween gift baskets are packed with spooky treats, toys, and surprises that kids love.
Whether you’re “booing” your neighbors or gifting your own kiddos, here are over 60 fun ideas to fill your basket!
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What is a Boo Basket?
A Boo Basket is essentially a Halloween-themed gift basket filled with various small toys, treats, and spooky items.
It’s a great way to celebrate the season with your kids and get them excited for Halloween.
You can tailor the basket to suit the age and interests of the recipient, making it a perfect gift for any child.
Want to make the entire spooky season special? Check out these 100 super fun family activities for Halloween to keep the excitement going long after the Boo Basket is opened.
How to Make a Boo Basket
- Choose Your Basket: Start with a festive basket, bucket, or even a Halloween-themed tote bag. The container itself can become part of the fun—look for something with spooky designs, or decorate a plain one with Halloween stickers or ribbon.
- Pick a Theme (Optional): You can choose a theme for your Boo Basket, such as a witchy theme, a spooky surprise, or a mix of Halloween colors. This can help guide your item selection and create a cohesive look.
- Fill with Fun and Spooky Items: Here’s a list of 60+ items you can include in your Boo Basket. Mix and match to create the perfect combination for your child!
Boo Basket Item Ideas
Whether you’re new to the tradition or a seasoned pro, these boo basket ideas for kids will help you create a magical Halloween surprise.
Spooky Treats
Sweet treats are a classic part of any boo basket ideas for kids—just be sure to mix in a few healthier options too.
- Halloween Candy: Divide a big bag among multiple baskets.
- Pretzels: A healthier snack option.
- Hot Chocolate Packet: Perfect for cozy autumn nights.
- Homemade Treats: Consider cookies, brownies, or rice krispies.
For hands-on fun to pair with your Boo Basket surprises, these spooky Halloween messy play ideas are perfect for sensory-loving little ones.
Halloween-Themed Toys
You can get a pack of toys like these, or buy individual items, up to you!
- Vampire’s Teeth: Classic spooky fun!
- Witch’s Fingers: Creepy and fun to wear.
- Plastic Bugs: Add a little creepy-crawly to the mix.
- Mini Pumpkins: A cute decoration that can also be painted or carved.
Add a bat-themed toy or coloring page, and include one of these hilarious bat jokes to tie it all together.
Beauty and Self-Care Items
- Bath Bomb: Choose a spooky color or scent.
- Mini Perfume: A sweet treat for older kids.
- Lip Gloss: Fun flavors and colors.
- Essential Oil: Lavender or peppermint for relaxation.
- Mini Nail Polish: Perfect for a Halloween manicure.
- Travel-Size Beauty Product: A fun and practical addition.
- Fall-Scented Candle: Adds a cozy, seasonal touch.
- Lip Balm: Keep those lips soft in the cooler weather.
Add a cozy Halloween movie night to your Boo Basket celebration with one of these adorable toddler-friendly Halloween films.
Fun and Games
- Yo-Yo: A classic toy for endless fun.
- Small Puzzle: Keep them entertained on a rainy day.
- Bubbles: For outdoor fun before it gets too cold.
- Slap Bracelet: A nostalgic toy with a spooky twist.
- Whoopee Cushion: A little bit of silly fun.
- Spinning Top: A simple, yet entertaining toy.
Pair those sweet treats with giggles—print out a few of these candy jokes for kids and slip them into your Boo Basket!
Craft and Stationery Items
If your child loves to create, these craft-focused boo basket ideas for kids will be a huge hit.
Check out this arts and crafts library, I got this for my kids.
- Crayons: Perfect for creative kids.
- Cool Paper Clips: Fun shapes add character to homework.
- Pen: A fun and functional addition.
- Washi Tape: Great for crafts and decorating.
- Bookmark: Encourage reading with a spooky or seasonal design.
Including a mini pumpkin in your basket? These painted pumpkin ideas will spark some creative fun for kids and adults alike.
Accessories and Wearables
Don’t forget wearable goodies! Accessories are one of the easiest boo basket ideas for kids that add fun and function.
Check out these accessories on Amazon if you need even more ideas.
- Scrunchies: In Halloween colors or patterns.
- Headbands: Add some festive flair to their outfit.
- Socks: Keep their feet warm with Halloween-themed socks.
- Lanyards: Handy for school or home use.
- Jewelry: A cute bracelet or necklace for a touch of sparkle.
- Colorful Shoelaces: Fun and functional.
- Bracelet: Add some Halloween bling.
Want to add a little laughter to your basket? Tuck in a joke card with some of these fall-themed kid-friendly puns.
Small and Quirky Items
For a surprise they won’t forget, try adding some quirky boo basket ideas for kids like glow-in-the-dark slime or sticky hands.
Check out these Halloween items.
- Temporary Tattoos: Choose spooky designs.
- Keychains: Fun, themed keychains for their backpack.
- Sticky Hand: A sticky toy that’s always a hit.
- Novelty Glasses: Spooky or silly glasses to wear.
- Glow Stick: Great for Halloween night.
- Ugly Teeth: Sure to get a laugh!
- Slime: Gross but oh-so-fun.
- Mini Flashlight: Handy for trick-or-treating or exploring in the dark.
- LED Ring: A fun, light-up accessory.
- Kazoo: A noisy but fun addition.
- Whistle: For safety and fun.
- Finger Puppet: A cute and entertaining toy.
- Golf Tees: A small gift for the aspiring golfer.
Seasonal and Decorative Items
- Small Decorative Items: Think mini skeletons, fake cobwebs, or Halloween-themed decor.
- Mini Liquor Bottles (For Adult Boo Baskets): Not for kids, but a fun addition to an adult-themed basket!
- Seeds: Plant some seasonal flowers or herbs.
- Coin Purse: A handy little gift for older kids.
- Mini Pumpkins: Real or decorative for a festive touch.
If you’re making a Boo Basket for a baby, consider pairing it with one of these irresistibly cute Halloween costume ideas!
Final Touches
The presentation is everything when it comes to boo basket ideas for kids. Don’t skip the shredded paper or fun ribbon!
Once you’ve gathered all your items, arrange them in your basket. You can add some shredded paper or tissue paper at the bottom to give it a fuller look and help prop up the items.
Encourage imaginative play by adding simple costume pieces or props—then try out these creative dress-up games with your kids!
Consider wrapping the entire basket in clear cellophane and tying it with a festive ribbon to add a finishing touch.
After all the Halloween excitement, use these practical tips to help prevent the dreaded post-holiday meltdowns.
Bottom Line
Creating a Boo Basket for kids is a delightful way to celebrate Halloween and bring some spooky fun into their lives.
With this list of over 60 items, you can mix and match to create a personalized and memorable gift that will leave your kids thrilled and ready for Halloween!
Whether you go all out or keep it simple, the thought and effort you put into the basket will surely make it a hit.
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FAQ on Halloween Boo Basket Ideas for Kids
Where can I get more boo basket ideas for kids?
Right here! Browse this guide or head to your local dollar store for even more fun and festive additions.
What is a Halloween Boo Basket?
A Halloween Boo Basket is a fun surprise gift basket filled with treats, toys, and Halloween-themed goodies. It’s typically given to kids, friends, or neighbors to spread festive cheer.
What should I include in a kid’s Boo Basket?
You can include candy, small toys, glow sticks, stickers, Halloween coloring books, pumpkin decorating kits, or festive trinkets like ghost-shaped slime or mini plush toys.
Are there non-candy ideas for Boo Baskets?
Yes! Include Halloween-themed puzzles, craft kits, socks, spooky storybooks, pumpkin stress balls, or healthy treats like popcorn, fruit snacks, or applesauce pouches.
How do I decorate the Boo Basket?
Use small pumpkins, spider webbing, stickers, Halloween-themed ribbon, or glow-in-the-dark items to give it a festive look. You can even use Halloween buckets instead of baskets!
Can I make a Boo Basket on a budget?
Absolutely! Head to a dollar store for affordable Halloween trinkets, mini toys, or candy packs. DIY crafts or baked goods also make great affordable additions.
When should I give out a Boo Basket?
Boo Baskets can be shared anytime in October leading up to Halloween. Many parents like to give them in the first week of October to kick off the spooky season.
How do I “boo” a neighbor or friend?
Leave the basket on their doorstep with a note that says, “You’ve Been Booed!” and instructions to continue the fun by gifting Boo Baskets to others.
Are Boo Baskets only for kids?
No! Boo Baskets can be customized for teens, adults, or even teachers by adding items like candles, coffee, or wine alongside Halloween treats.
What are some creative basket themes?
Try themes like “Monster Mash” with monster toys and green treats, “Witch’s Cauldron” with potion-themed snacks, or “Pumpkin Patch Fun” with mini pumpkins and autumn-themed crafts.
Where can I find items to fill a Boo Basket?
You can shop for Boo Basket goodies at Amazon, local party stores, dollar stores, or craft stores. Check seasonal sections for affordable, themed items.