Halloween season is upon us once again! If you really want to make your Halloween party more special this year, why not host a costume contest? This way, guests have an extra reason to go all-out with their looks and bring their A-game. No worries if you’re not sure where to start, I’ve put together the ultimate list of Halloween costume contest categories, plus fun tips on how to win and how to judge like a pro. Let the spooky fun begin!
Halloween Costume Contest Categories for Your Halloween Party
Classic Crowd-Pleasers
1. Best Overall Costume
This award belongs to the costume that brings the “wow” factor, regardless of theme, budget, or whether it’s DIY or store-bought. These are often the most unforgettable ones that guests will talk about long after the party’s over. Think full-on movie characters, jaw-dropping special effects makeup, or elaborate handmade designs!
2. Scariest Costume
It’s not a Halloween party if there’s no one dressed to scare the heck out of everyone. Whether they’re dressed as a blood-soaked zombie or a spine-chilling ghost, this category is all about the fright factor. The winner of this award makes people instinctively step back, gives them goosebumps, and maybe even makes them avoid the dark corners of the room.
3. Funniest Costume
Halloween costume contests are also a time for people to showcase their humor. For lighthearted, laugh-filled parties, this is the must-have category. If they made people giggle the second they walked through the door and kept the laughs going all night, they’re a top contender here!
4. Most Creative Costume
It takes tons of imagination to pull off a truly original Halloween look. This category celebrates DIYs, unexpected mashups, and clever twists on familiar ideas. Costumes that blend unique concepts with flawless execution usually take the cake here, like turning household items into wearable art or reimagining a classic character in a totally new way.
5. Best Couple or Duo Costume
This one’s for couples, best friends, or even co-workers who want to make a grand entrance together. It’s all about the most iconic pairings, from famous movie duos to unexpected matches. The key is making sure both costumes work as a set, whether that means matching colors, shared props, or a theme that ties it all together. Simple or elaborate, the best pairings look coordinated without feeling forced.
Related: 15 Last-Minute DIY Couple Halloween Costumes You Can Throw Together Fast
6. Best Group Costume
Group costumes are on a whole new level of commitment and fun. First, it takes teamwork and great coordination to make the theme work. It also brings an opportunity to create clever group dynamics, visual gags, or scene recreations that duo or solo categories simply can’t match. From superhero squads to full movie casts, the bigger and bolder the group, the more epic the impact.
Unique & Out-of-the-Box
7. Best DIY Costume
This category honors the DIY genius who can turn simple supplies into an amazing Halloween costume using their creativity and imagination. We all know how much time and effort it takes to make a costume from scratch, so this award is a well-earned nod to that dedication. Bonus points if they used recycled materials or repurposed items in a clever way!
Related: 17+ Plus-Size DIY Halloween Costumes That Are Easy and Total Showstoppers
8. Best Pop Culture Reference
It’s great to stay updated with the latest trends, especially when it comes to Halloween costumes. From a look inspired by the year’s biggest viral meme to a spot-on recreation of a trending movie or TV character, these get-ups are instant crowd-pleasers. Throwback references to past pop culture moments deserve a spot here too, especially if they’re done with accuracy and personality.
9. Best Pun Costume
Punny costumes are always guaranteed to get a reaction. If you’re adding this to your Halloween costume contest categories, make sure it’s all about clever wordplay turned into a look that’s instantly understandable. The best ones get people laughing or groaning the moment they see it, and that’s exactly the goal!
10. Best Gender Swap Costume
A gender-bending costume is a fun way to flip the script on a familiar character. This category includes both iconic pop culture figures and classic Halloween staples reimagined in a fresh way. Extra points if the outfit still makes the character instantly recognizable!
11. Best Vintage or Throwback Costume
Featuring retro styles from the roaring 20s, the swingin’ 50s, the neon-filled 80s, and everything in between, this category celebrates the charm of past decades. It’s all about nailing the fashion, hair, and accessories of the era you’re channeling. Guests will love the nostalgia factor and the chance to see iconic looks from different generations come back to life on the dance floor.
Related: Best Places to Buy Halloween Costumes Online Without Getting Ripped Off
Just for Fun
12. Most Adorable Costume
Kids (and pets!) can join in the fun too! The most adorable Halloween costumes are the ones that make everyone smile the second they see them. The winner here is usually the one that combines cuteness, comfort, and just the right amount of festive flair.
13. Best Food-Inspired Costume
This category is the perfect mix of tasty and funny. It either makes your mouth water or makes you laugh out loud. The most unforgettable food-inspired costumes are often packed with clever details, from realistic textures to creative props that bring the “dish” to life.
14. Best Office-Appropriate Costume
If you’re planning a workplace-friendly contest, this category makes sure everyone can join in without crossing HR’s limits. Costumes should be clever and fun but still comfortable and professional enough to wear in the office. You can still get creative with themes and accessories while keeping it safe for the workday.
15. Fan Favorite
This one’s all about audience participation. Guests can vote for their favorite costume with applause, a quick ballot, or even an online poll if you’re going digital. It’s an easy, fun way to let the crowd decide who wins, and it often reveals the most talked-about look of the night. Sometimes, it’s not the most elaborate costumes that win, but those that have a hilarious backstory or just that extra spark of personality!
How to Judge a Halloween Costume Contest
Here are a few things I always keep in mind when picking a winner, whether it’s a small party with friends or a big community event. A little structure makes the whole process more fun and easy for everyone!
1. Set clear judging criteria – Decide if you’re judging based on creativity, effort, accuracy, or overall impact, and make sure all the judges agree before you start.
2. Use a simple scoring system – This is how you’ll keep track of results without it turning into a math headache. A 1–5 scale for each category works well and makes it quick to add up at the end.
3. Pay attention to details – A winning costume isn’t just about the main outfit. Makeup, props, and even small but well-thought-out accessories can make a huge difference in how polished it looks.
4. Factor in presentation – Confidence matters. How someone walks in, poses, or plays the part can make their costume stand out even more.
5. Keep it fun – A costume contest is all about celebrating creativity. Don’t overthink it and keep the mood light so everyone enjoys the process.
Related: How to Throw a Witch-Themed Halloween Party: Killer Decor, Food & Drink Ideas
Tips on How to Win a Halloween Costume Contest
I’ve seen a few simple tricks help people win costume contests, and I’m sharing them here. Spoiler: a big part of it is just having fun!
1. Plan ahead – The best costumes usually take some thought. Give yourself time to gather materials, order anything you need, and put it all together without rushing.
2. Pay attention to the theme – If the contest has specific categories or a theme, make sure your costume fits. Judges notice when you’ve read the room.
3. Focus on details – Accessories, makeup, and props can take your look from “good” to “unforgettable.” Little things make a big impact.
4. Bring personality – Own your costume once you put it on. Whether that means staying in character or playing it up for the crowd, confidence is what makes it stand out.
5. Make it memorable – Go for something that stands out, whether it’s scary, funny, or creative. If people are still talking about your costume at the end of the night, you’re on the right track.
Halloween Costume Contest FAQs and Tips
Q: How do I choose the right Halloween costume contest categories for my party?
Think about who’s coming. If it’s a family crowd, go for “Cutest Costume” or “Best DIY.” For adults, “Creepiest Costume” or “Best Pop Culture Reference” is always a hit.
Q: What’s a good prize for a Halloween costume contest winner?
Gift cards, themed treats, or a quirky trophy work great!
Q: What’s the best way to collect votes for a “Fan Favorite” award?
Old-school paper ballots are easy, but an online poll is fun if your guests are techy.
Q: What if my costume isn’t as fancy as others?
Don’t worry! Judges look for creativity and personality, not just elaborate builds.
Q: Do I have to make my costume myself?
Not always, but some contests give extra points for homemade or modified pieces.
And there you have it, the ultimate list of Halloween costume contest categories, plus tips to make your party unforgettable. Got a favorite category or a winning story of your own? Share it in the comments or pass this article along to a Halloween host who needs some inspo!
