OCALA, FL. – (352 Today) In Marion County from Ocala to Belleview, Halloween isn’t just a one-day celebration—it’s a season. Local families often start decorating weeks ahead of October 31, transforming front porches and living rooms into festive, spooky scenes.

For those who prefer a hands-on approach to holiday decorating, fall is the perfect time to gather supplies, break out the glue guns and make something special. Whether you’re decorating a home near downtown or prepping a trunk-or-treat station for a local fall festival, these easy DIY Halloween crafts can turn your space into a local showstopper.

1. No-Carve 3D Pumpkins

Pumpkin carving can be messy and time-consuming. Instead, create a striking effect with hot glue and craft paint. Pick up a medium-sized pumpkin from a Marion County farmers’ market. Use a hot glue gun to draw designs—think jack-o’-lantern faces, swirls, or even spiderwebs—right on the surface. Once dry, paint over the entire pumpkin with acrylic paint. The raised patterns will pop through for a modern, mess-free twist on a fall favorite.

2. Ocala-Inspired Halloween Wreath

Dress up your front door with a spooky-fun wreath that reflects our Central Florida charm. Start with a greenery wreath or grab a grapevine base from a local craft shop like Hobby Lobby on SR 200. Paint a round wooden sign with chalkboard paint, then add a message like “Beware!” or “Trick-or-Treaters Welcome.” Accent the wreath with faux Spanish moss, glittery leaves or even mini plastic gators for a local twist. Finish with a big black-and-orange bow.

3. Boo Boxes for Trick-or-Treat Surprises

Kids love surprises, and a personalized “boo treasure box” is a great alternative to standard treat bags. Use a small unfinished wooden box—available at Jo-Ann Fabrics or Michaels—and paint it in Halloween hues. Add stickers or hand-painted icons like bats, ghosts or pumpkins. Fill the box with candy or small toys and set it out during local Halloween events or neighborhood gatherings in places like Fore Ranch or Saddlewood.

4. Ghoulish Gnomes

Gnomes have become a year-round decorating trend in Ocala homes. This Halloween, make your own spooky gnome with just a few simple materials. Use a 9-inch foam cone as the base. Wrap the lower half with a solid-colored sock, secure with glue, and top it off with a faux fur beard. A wooden bead makes a perfect nose, while a crew sock decorated in Halloween colors serves as the hat. Add tiny felt bats, spiders or mini pumpkins for extra flair.

Whether you’re crafting with kids, prepping for a fall festival, or just looking to add a personal touch to your Halloween décor, these DIY projects are easy, affordable, and fun for the whole family. With plenty of local shops and craft stores around Ocala, it’s never been easier to bring your Halloween vision to life—one glue stick at a time.