Halloween decoration sales overtake Easter in Finland

Halloween has overtaken Easter in sales of decorations and party supplies, although Easter remains the bigger celebration overall for consumers, according to retailer data reported by Yle.

Tokmanni says Halloween decorations outsold Easter decorations for the first time last year. S Group also sells more decorations, costumes and party supplies during Halloween season than it does for Easter. Its Halloween product sales rose by more than 50 per cent in units between 2022 and 2025.

Retailers say Halloween ranges have expanded and shoppers are beginning to prepare weeks before the celebration. Tokmanni reports that the first Halloween searches in its online store come just after summer. Sales peak in the final week of October.

Demand for seasonal decorations and sweets also rises at K Group. Easter still leads in seasonal treats: retailers sell more Easter sweets and baked goods overall, including mämmi, pasha and confectionery. S Group says Halloween sweets and baked goods have doubled in sales between comparison periods, but Easter treats still sell considerably more.

Halloween sales include wrapped sweets bought for children as well as products specifically marketed for the holiday. Retailers say their ranges have also grown to include items such as cosmetics and soft drinks. Tokmanni says decorative skeletons have been especially popular this autumn.

Few admit spending money on Halloween

People interviewed in central Tampere were more likely to choose Easter when asked which celebration they marked more. Tuulia Soininen said she spends nothing on Halloween and finds it somewhat artificial in Finland, adding that the traditional harvest festival kekri might feel closer to her.

Veera Tapanainen said family traditions make Easter her choice, but she has begun celebrating Halloween for the sake of her children. Sonja Tahlo said Halloween is the one holiday her children, who live in two homes, have never had to divide between them. She now mainly spends money on treats, though she may need to reconsider this year’s costume after being told last year’s was too frightening.