MATTHEWS — According to the National Retail Federation, Halloween spending for 2019 is expected to reach $8.8 billion, with consumers planning to spend an average of $86.27 each.

Among Halloween celebrants via the Better Business Bureau, 69% plan to pass out candy, 49% will decorate their home or yard, 47% will wear costumes, 29% will take their children trick-or-treating and 17% will dress their pets in costumes.

When it comes to purchasing costumes and other Halloween supplies, 42% of shoppers will visit discount stores, 36% will visit a Halloween store, and 25% will shop online.

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) recommends looking around your home for costumes, renting a costume, looking for sales, checking the return policy for items you intend to purchase, shopping smart online, utilizing seasonal stores and attending a special event or visiting a haunted house.