How to Host a Spooktacular Halloween Party for Adults

It is officially fall, and spooky season is here.  Whether you are planning a fall event catered around pumpkin season and hayrides, or a night of Halloween frivolity, we have you covered on how to make your event spectacular and memorable.

Even simple snacks such as fruit, cookies, or candy can double as beautiful decor.

To make the party planning process easier, our founder, Cynthia is sharing her favorite Halloween tips.  Cynthia knows firsthand how meaningful a Halloween event can be for both the guests and hosts alike. For years, she hosted a neighborhood block party that everyone loved! She still cherishes those special memories.



Set the Scene with a Frightenly Delicious Menu

“People eat with their eyes,” Cynthia likes to say.  Having a tasty, delightful spread to look at will make you feel festive and leave a lasting impact on your guests.  From seasonal treats to haunted-themed drinks to candy that will make your mouth water, there are countless ways to get into the Halloween Spirit!

 

Cafe Danielle Catering & Events’ pumpkincake jars are the perfect treat for Halloween parties!

SIMPLE AND SINISTER SNACKS

Choose colorful snacks that embrace the Halloween spirit and double as table decor: 

Pigs in a Blanket: Shape them like fingers for a creepy yet delicious snack.

Ghost-Shaped Chips: Cut flour tortillas with and serve with dips for a themed appetizer.

Custom Halloween Chips: Choose orange and black chips to add a special touch.

Cake Jars: Make it eye-catching with gummy candies, eyeballs, and fingers






Heartier Bites

For something a bit heartier, try one of Cynthia’s easy but delicious ideas:

King Ranch Casserole:  Simple, filling recipe that can be scaled to feed a few people to many guests.

  • Flour Tortillas, cut into strips

  • Pulled Chicken

  • Sour Cream

  • Chipotle Salsa

  • Cumin & Chili Powder

  • Cheddar Cheese, grated

Simply mix all ingredients apart from tortillas and cheese.  Layer 1/3 of the tortilla strips on the bottom, 1/3 of the chicken mixture and top with 1/3 of the cheddar cheese.  Repeat for two more layers.  Cover and bake for 20 minutes at 375; uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes.  Times may be adjusted according to size of dish you prepare.  Let stand for 10 minutes and enjoy!

7-Layer Dip: Try this for a heartier appetizer.

  • Sour Cream

  • Black Beans

  • Guacamole

  • Corn

  • Cheddar Cheese

  • Salsa

  • Mexican Spices

Layer all 7 ingredients and serve with your favorite Halloween chips.

 


Venison Chili Frito Pie served in an individual bag of Fritos.

Venison Chili Frito Pie:  Prepare your favorite chili with and allow your guests serve up their own Frito pie in an individual-sized bag of Fritos for a fun and easy-prep twist. 

Top this off with your favorite toppings:

  • tomatillo salsa

  • chopped cilantro

  • lime wedges

  • sharp cheddar cheese

  • sour cream

  • sliced jalapeños


HAUNTING HALLOWEEN COCKTAILS

To make the drinks extra festive, get creative by adding some fun Halloween extras.

Twizzler Straws: Use black licorice as straws by cutting off the tips.

Halloween Kiss: Dip the rim of your glass in lime juice and roll it in orange sugar or black sprinkles. Be sure to leave part of the glass uncovered so your guests who wear lipstick can enjoy their drink, worry-free.

Spooky Cocktails: Try an Orange Crush with vodka, or even orange Jello shots. Drop candy corn into the drink for extra flair.

Coming Soon: Keep your eyes open for Part 2, where Cynthia shares her best Halloween Party management and decor tips.

Overwhelmed? Cafè Danielle Catering & Events Can Help!

Hosting a Halloween party doesn’t have to be scary! If you want to make your festive event flawless, consider hiring our talented staff!

With more than 35 years of experience in the food and event planning industry, Cynthia has an eye for bringing your events to life. So, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy your spectacular spooky event!

Cafe Danielle