If you’re gearing up for a Halloween party at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, here are some costume ideas tailored for the campus scene and Eau Claire’s weather! We’ll also give tips on where to buy them locally, budget-friendly DIY options, and some safety pointers. Let's make sure your Halloween is fun, warm, and memorable!
1. Classic Characters with a Twist
Dressing as a classic character, like a witch or vampire, is always a hit—but add a modern twist! Think "Vintage Witch" with flared sleeves and classic hat styles or “Urban Vampire” with trendy clothes and dark makeup. Halloween Express in Eau Claire has a huge selection of classic costumes, with options for customizing to suit your style (1. Halloween Express, 4800 Golf Road)
For a DIY option, use basic black clothes and thrift finds from places like Savers Thrift Store (2. Savers Eau Claire). Add creative makeup from Halloween Express or a local drugstore.
2. UWEC Themed Costumes
Celebrate your Blugold pride by dressing as a UWEC-inspired character! Go as a “Blugold Superfan” in blue and gold with face paint, a DIY spirit stick, and tons of UWEC merch. For local finds, A-1 Express Rental Center (3. https://www.a1expressrental.com/index.php ) at 2515 Mall Dr. stocks UWEC-colored costumes, face paints, and props to amp up your school spirit.
For something simple, use items you already have in UWEC colors and add some festive face paint or accessories for a student-friendly costume!
3. Pop Culture & Movie Icons
Going as your favorite movie or TV character can be an instant conversation starter! Try characters from popular shows like "Stranger Things" (vintage '80s look), or even superheroes with a cozy twist for cold weather. For ready-to-wear costumes, Spirit Halloween on 6440 Scully Drive has plenty of pop culture options that cater to any budget and style (4. Spirit Halloween).
Want to DIY? Head to Hope Bargain Center on 2511 W. Moholt Drive (5. https://www.hopegospelmission.org/our-stores/eau-claire/ ) for clothes that fit your character’s style—think plaid shirts for a ‘90s character or oversized sweaters for a retro look. Add small accessories from Halloween Express to complete the ensemble.
4. Punny Costumes
Nothing beats a good pun! Dress as a “Cereal Killer” with mini cereal boxes attached to a plain outfit, or be a “Ceiling Fan” by wearing a shirt with “Go Ceiling!” on it, pom-poms in hand. These are easy, inexpensive, and usually get a laugh. Find props and paints for pun costumes at A-1 Express Rental Center or Halloween Express.
These costumes are great for creativity and conversation. Plus, they’re perfect if you want something comfortable for moving around and staying warm.
5. Weather-Friendly Animal Onesies
Given Eau Claire’s unpredictable fall weather, a cozy onesie costume might be your best bet for warmth and fun. You can find animal onesies (from unicorns to penguins) at stores like Spirit Halloween. Halloween Express also stocks options like fleece pajama costumes for animals, and they’re warm and easy to wear in cooler weather.
These costumes are ideal for outdoor events, and if it’s particularly chilly, you can easily layer clothes underneath!
Safety Tips for a Great Halloween Night
- Stay Warm: Wisconsin weather can be chilly! Costume ideas with layers or warm fabrics are ideal. Onesies, cozy jackets, or costumes with a built-in cloak will help you stay comfortable and enjoy the night.
- Go Easy on Alcohol: If there’s alcohol at the party, pace yourself. Staying hydrated with water and keeping track of how much you drink will help you feel better all night and keep you safe. Mix the drink yourself so you know what you will be drinking.
- Watch Your Surroundings: Busy events can get chaotic, so make sure to stick with friends, especially when moving from one place to another. Set up a group chat or a plan in case anyone gets separated.
- Plan Your Transportation: If you’re going out, use a ride-share service or have a designated driver. Local taxis and ride-shares like Uber and Lyft are excellent options for getting back safely if you’re out late.
- Reflective Clothing: Add something reflective to your costume to be seen by motorists.
Where to Find Costumes in Eau Claire
Here are some top places around Eau Claire to pick up your Halloween costumes, props, and accessories:
- Halloween Express (4800 Golf Road) – For an extensive variety of costumes, props, and accessories for all ages. They also carry decorations if you’re throwing a party! https://www.halloweenexpress.com/.
- Savers Thrift Store (2833 Mall Dr.) – Perfect for finding budget-friendly, thrifted items that can be turned into unique costumes https://www.savers.com .
- A-1 Express Rental Center (2515 Mall Dr.) – Great for costume accessories, makeup, and UWEC colors https://www.a1expressrental.com/index.php .
- Spirit Halloween (6440 Scully Drive) – Known for a wide selection of costumes, including pop culture and classic options https://www.spirithalloween.com/ .
- Hope Bargain Center (2511 W. Moholt Drive) - Known for the best deals in Eau Claire on second hand shopping. https://www.hopegospelmission.org/our-stores/eau-claire/ .
Have a fun, safe, and memorable Halloween at UWEC! With these costume ideas, you’ll be ready to impress at the party and make some unforgettable college memories. With Halloween on a Thursday this year, you can celebrate across a full weekend of tricks and treats. And it gets better: in 2025, Halloween falls on a Friday night, and in 2026, it's a Saturday—so get ready for back-to-back years of perfect Halloween weekends!
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