OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Last Halloween, my son introduced me to a new term – the Boo Basket. Curious, I asked him what exactly a Boo Basket was.

He explained that a Boo Basket is a Halloween-themed container or gift basket filled with candy, treats, and other festive items.

My son said he was making a Boo Basket for his girlfriend, full of her favorite candies, Halloween decorations, and a cute note. He was excited to leave it on their dining room table for her to find as a spooky surprise.

I thought the Boo Basket tradition sounded like a fun way to get into the Halloween spirit and connect with family, friends, and neighbors. It’s a simple act that can bring a lot of joy during the haunting season.

Ready to get in on the Boo Basket fun? Here are some tips to make your own spooktacular creation:

What to Include:
  • Halloween-themed basket, box, or bag
  • Festive candies and snacks like bite-sized chocolates, gummy worms, candy corn
  • Small Halloween decorations like mini pumpkins, bat garlands, glow sticks
  • Halloween-themed office supplies like pens, notepads, or sticky notes
  • Gift cards to local businesses
  • Hand-written note with instructions on “boo’ing” others

Some of my favorite Boo Basket items:
A cute Halloween card is a must. This retro Jack-O-Lantern and black cat-themed card is especially fun. Courtesy: Kathy Dugan/352today
I treated myself to this cute Hocus Pocus coffee mug. It holds a lot of Pumpkin Spice coffee. Courtesy: Kathy Dugan/352today
While it may not be for everyone, candy corn is one of my fall favorites. Courtesy: Kathy Dugan/352today
Boo Basket Presentation:
  • Wrap the basket in cellophane or tissue paper for a polished look
  • Include a “You’ve Been Booed” sign or printable to accompany the basket
  • Add ribbons, bows, or other decorative touches to make it extra festive
  • Include instructions on what to do next, like passing the “boo” on to others
Boo-tiful Hiding Spots:
  • Tuck the basket behind a potted plant on the porch
  • Disguise it in a paper grocery bag or box
  • Place it on the doorstep, then ring the doorbell and quickly hide
  • Conceal it behind a trash can or other outdoor furniture
  • For someone in your home – children, spouse, partner – leave it on a bedroom dresser, a kitchen countertop, or dining room table for the recipient to find
Neighborhood Booing Tips:
  • Coordinate with other families to ensure everyone gets “booed”
  • Post about your Boo Basket activities on neighborhood apps or social media
  • Use printable “You’ve Been Booed” signs to make it easy for recipients
  • Consider doing a “Boo Block” where an entire street or neighborhood participates

Putting together a creative, spooky Boo Basket is a great way to spread seasonal joy and build community this Halloween. Or, in my son’s case, make his girlfriend smile. So, grab your best witchy basket and get to booing!