Have you seen the movie Coco? The one where the boy, Miguel, accidentally crosses into the Land of the Dead? [I rewatched it recently] and couldn’t stop thinking about how alive that world felt — glowing colors, music everywhere, and skeletons in stylish outfits that somehow made the whole thing feel more magical than macabre.

That’s kind of the vibe I’ve been craving for Halloween this year — something more about connection, color, and fun. Wouldn’t it be amazing to gather your friends or family for a night that’s a little spooky, but mostly festive and relaxed?

Maybe you’re thinking, “Okay, Sara, how do I even pull that off?” That’s where a little planning—and a bit of the right party box—can make all the difference.

It’s Halloween… but Make It a Fiesta

Start with a base of bright, cheerful décor — hang a colorful fiesta-style banner in the space where everyone will gather. Use vibrant tableware (yes, paper plates can be stylish!) to make your snack station feel festive. Set out bowls of chips, guac, salsa, or whatever easy bites you love, and stick a few playful food picks in to make grabbing snacks feel just a little more elevated.

Now, if you’re thinking, “But it’s still Halloween, Sara — where’s the spook?” — don’t worry, there’s plenty of room to weave it in. Add black candles to the table, a skeleton hand serving chips, or a few mini pumpkins painted in metallics or dark colors for that moody contrast. Dim the lights just a little, and string some warm fairy lights or even flickering LED candles to keep things cozy but just a tad mysterious.

To keep things easy and festive, I’d recommend grabbing our Fiesta Happy Hour Box — designed to make nights like this come together effortlessly. It includes vibrant tableware, fun fiesta photo props, a banner that sets the tone, and even a ready-to-pour margarita drink pouch (because grown-up Halloween deserves great drinks). It serves 16, which is perfect for everything from small hangouts to full-on house parties.

Less Haunted, More Happy Hour

Halloween tends to come with a lot of pressure — elaborate costumes, elaborate décor, and let’s not even talk about the grocery bill for candy. But this kind of gathering? It’s easygoing, festive, and grown-up in the best way. It’s not about impressing anyone — it’s about connecting. Laughing over silly photo booth props, clinking drinks with friends, and stealing one more chip even though you said you were done. (Who hasn’t done this?)

When you create an atmosphere that feels welcoming and lighthearted, your guests feel it too. They show up more relaxed, more present — and that’s where the real magic of a party lives.

So if you’re looking for a fresh way to celebrate this year, the fiesta route might just be the one. And if you want to skip the stress and still make it memorable, the Fiesta Happy Hour Box is your shortcut to pulling it all together.

Here’s to making this Halloween your most vibrant one yet!