Spirit Halloween has confirmed that it will open over 1,500 temporary retail locations across the U.S. and Canada this fall—despite canceling its annual flagship grand opening event for the first time in four years.

Flagship Event Canceled for 2025

The company announced that its much‑anticipated season kickoff party in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, has been canceled. Spirit cited ongoing “international disruptions and supply‑chain challenges”—a likely reference to tariffs and global shipping issues—as the cause of the decision. The annual in‑store celebration typically draws thousands of fans and features early access to costumes and animatronics, giveaways, and live previews of the season’s latest merchandise.

Stores Still Opening as Scheduled

Despite the canceled event, Spirit confirmed via social media that it remains fully on track to open its seasonal stores starting in mid‑August 2025, as part of its traditional rollout. Spirit emphasized that “the engines are on, and we’re full speed ahead” toward another major spooky season.

Retail analysts say the chain’s model—setting up temporary stores in malls or vacant retail spaces for roughly 60 to 90 days before and after Halloween—remains effective. Even amid supply chain constraints, Spirit is moving forward with its plan to serve millions of Halloween shoppers.

Expanded Footprint and Back-Up Plans

Spirit Halloween, founded in 1983 and now owned by Spencer Gifts, has steadily grown into America’s largest seasonal Halloween retailer. In recent seasons, it expanded to over 1,500 pop-up locations, including in previously unused real estate like former department stores or shopping center vacancies. About 35% of sites remain consistent year after year, while others rotate based on available space and logistics.

The retailer even began piloting “Spirit Christmas” stores in late 2024, testing a new seasonal model that mirrored its Halloween strategy across several Northeast states.

Why the Event Was Postponed

Industry experts note that recent U.S. tariffs and disruptions in global trade have created friction for seasonal retailers dependent on imported goods. Robert Berman of the Halloween & Costume Association called it an “existential moment” noting that delays or rising costs could jeopardize the entire Halloween retail system.

For Spirit, the decision to skip this year’s New Jersey kickoff event was pragmatic, aiming to avoid logistical risks while still preserving the broader store rollout. The retailer assured customers that the event will return in 2026.

What Shoppers Should Expect

• Mid‑August Store Openings: Most locations are expected to begin operations between mid‑August and early September, depending on region and setup timing.

• Wide Variety of Merchandise: Costumes, animatronics, decorations, props, makeup, and more—both licensed and in-house items—will be available in-store and online.

• Post‑Halloween Clearance: After October 31, many Spirit stores offer deep discounts—often up to 50% off—on leftover seasonal inventory.

• Online Access Year‑Round: Even when physical pop‑ups close, Spirit’s e-commerce site remains active throughout the year for late-season shopping.

For fans and Halloween shoppers, this year means fewer photo ops and launch-day fanfare—but it doesn’t mean fewer costumes, fewer stores, or a less spooky shopping experience. As Spirit put it: “Halloween never dies.”