The Top 10 Halloween Costumes for 2026: From Creepy Unicorns to Viral Toys

Halloween 2026 is almost here, and if you’re still scrambling to figure out what to wear, don’t worry — there’s still time to put together a costume that’ll get people talking.

This year’s biggest costume trends are a wild mix of horror movie characters, video game favorites, nostalgic cartoon icons and one surprisingly popular squishy toy. Basically, you can dress up as a terrifying movie villain, a legendary Greek warrior or something that looks like it belongs in a kid’s toy box.

Google’s annual Frightgeist report tracked costume searches that surged compared with the previous year, revealing the characters and crazes capturing everyone’s attention. Here are the top 10 trending Halloween costumes for 2026, according to Google’s rankings.

1. Buddy the Unicorn

Forget the friendly unicorns you see on birthday cakes. Buddy is bringing a much darker side to the mythical creature craze.

Inspired by the 2026 horror movie Buddy, this colorful unicorn character takes something innocent and turns it into something seriously creepy. Think bright colors, an oversized unicorn costume and an unsettling smile that makes everyone wonder whether they should ask for candy or run for their lives.

It's the perfect choice for anyone who wants to look cute from a distance and absolutely terrifying up close.

2. NeeDoh

<text>Who knew a squishy stress-relief toy would become one of the year's biggest Halloween costume inspirations?</text>

NeeDoh, the colorful sensory toy that's become a viral sensation, has landed near the top of Google's costume rankings. The costume practically screams, "I couldn't decide what to wear, so I became a giant stress ball."

The good news? This could be one of the easier costumes to create yourself. Grab an oversized, brightly colored outfit, add some creative foam accessories and you're ready to go. Bonus points if you spend the entire night pretending people can squeeze you whenever they're stressed.

3. Nikki From Obsession

If you're looking for a costume with a darker edge, Nikki from the 2026 psychological horror movie Obsession is a trending choice.

The character's recognizable red-and-black animal-print outfit makes this look relatively easy to recreate without spending a fortune. Add the right makeup and attitude, and you've got a costume that horror fans should recognize.

Just remember: There's a difference between looking obsessed for Halloween and actually texting your ex 47 times in one night.

4. Agamemnon From The Odyssey

Ancient Greek mythology is having a moment, thanks in part to the buzz surrounding Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey.

Agamemnon gives Halloween fans the opportunity to trade traditional costumes for something a little more epic. Think Greek-inspired armor, a flowing cloak, sandals and accessories fit for a legendary king.

It's also a great excuse to show up to a Halloween party dressed like you're about to lead an army into battle — even if the only battle you're facing is over the last slice of pizza.

5. Lily Lovebraids From Poppy Playtime

Video game horror continues to inspire Halloween costumes, and Lily Lovebraids from Poppy Playtime is one of the characters getting attention this year.

With her doll-like appearance and creepy toy-inspired aesthetic, Lily is ideal for anyone who wants to make people uncomfortable without relying on the same old vampire or zombie outfit.

The key is getting the hair, makeup and unsettling character details right. If you enjoy horror games and creepy dolls, this one could be a perfect fit.

6. Oliver Tree

Not every Halloween costume needs fake blood, fangs or a terrifying mask. Sometimes, all you need is a very questionable haircut.

Musician and internet personality Oliver Tree makes the list thanks to his distinctive look, including his bowl haircut, oversized clothing and eccentric fashion choices.

This is a particularly good last-minute option because much of the outfit can be assembled from clothes you already own. Find the right wig or hairstyle, put together an exaggerated outfit and commit to the character.

The best part? If someone doesn't recognize your costume, you can simply tell them you're dressed as a guy who lost a bet with a stylist.

7. Verity From Minecraft

Minecraft fans can take their Halloween creativity beyond Steve, Creepers and Endermen with Verity, a character associated with a viral horror series connected to the block-building game.

This costume brings a creepy twist to a franchise known for its colorful, pixelated world. Think yellow coloring, a distinctive smile and a look that feels like something you'd encounter in a Minecraft nightmare.

It's a fun option for gamers who want something a little more unusual than the standard video game costume. Just don't be surprised if someone tries to build a dirt shelter around you.

8. Carl From Dungeon Crawler Carl

Fantasy fans have another reason to celebrate this Halloween: Carl from Dungeon Crawler Carl is making Google's trending list.

Based on Matt Dinniman's popular fantasy series, Carl is a former Coast Guard member navigating a deadly, game-like dungeon alongside his cat, Princess Donut.

The look offers plenty of room for creativity, whether you want to recreate Carl's recognizable appearance or build a more elaborate outfit inspired by the series.

And if you have a cat willing to participate, you might have the makings of a pretty great two-person — or one-person-and-one-cat — costume.

9. Disco Scooby-Doo

Zoinks! Scooby-Doo is heading to the dance floor.

The classic cartoon dog gets a groovy makeover with a disco-inspired costume that's perfect for anyone who grew up watching the Mystery Inc. gang solve supernatural mysteries.

Think colorful '70s fashion, funky accessories and plenty of disco flair. You can also team up with a friend dressed as Shaggy for one of the year's most recognizable couples or buddy costumes.

The only real requirement is that you must be prepared to say "Scooby-Dooby-Doo!" at least once during the evening.

10. Hazel Hook From Descendants

Rounding out the top 10 is Hazel Hook from Disney's Descendants franchise.

Inspired by the 2026 film Descendants: Wicked Wonderland, Hazel Hook is a fun option for fans of Disney fantasy, musical adventures and elaborate character costumes.

With a look inspired by the daughter of Captain Hook, you can lean into pirate fashion, dramatic accessories and a little villainous attitude.

It's especially appealing for younger fans who want something current rather than another year of dressing up as Elsa or a Disney princess from a decade ago.

Honorable Mentions: Other Halloween Costume Trends

If none of those ten costumes is quite your style, there are plenty of other options making waves in 2026.

• K-Pop Demon Hunters: The animated hit continues to inspire costumes featuring colorful outfits, dramatic hairstyles and supernatural pop-star energy.
• Toy Story: Woody, Buzz Lightyear and Jessie remain excellent choices, especially following the release of Toy Story 5.
• Superheroes: Spider-Man, Batman and Superman remain popular choices for kids and adults.
• Classic monsters: Witches, vampires and ghosts never really go out of style — and they're usually easy to put together at the last minute.
• Off Campus: Hockey jerseys and character-inspired outfits from the popular series offer fun options for couples and groups.

These trends reflect different sources and types of rankings, so they aren't all part of Google's official top 10 list.

So, What's the Best Halloween Costume for 2026?

That depends on what you're going for.

If you want to be the most unusual person at the party, Buddy the Unicorn or NeeDoh could be your best bet. Horror fans should consider Nikki or Lily Lovebraids, while gamers have options with Verity and Carl. And if you're going with a friend, Disco Scooby-Doo and Shaggy make a pretty hard-to-beat combination.

Of course, there's nothing wrong with throwing on a witch hat five minutes before leaving the house and calling it a day.

Halloween is October 31, and the clock is ticking. Pick your costume, grab some candy and prepare for a night of questionable fashion decisions.

Which Halloween costume are you wearing this year? And more importantly, which one would you absolutely refuse to wear?

Apple’s New Folding iPhone Already Has Screen Problems — Here’s What to Do

Apple’s newest iPhone is barely out of the box, and some owners are already dealing with cracked screens. The company has acknowledged display problems affecting a small number of its new folding iPhone Duo devices and says it will replace affected phones.

Not exactly the kind of surprise you want after spending big bucks on a brand-new phone!

The Backstory

Apple announced the iPhone Duo in September, with preorders opening October 16. The device officially hit stores last Friday in more than 70 countries and regions, drawing plenty of attention from eager Apple fans.

Demand was reportedly so strong that online orders sold out within minutes in several locations, leaving thousands of customers scrambling to get their hands on the company's first foldable smartphone.

But for some early adopters, the excitement didn't last long.

What Went Wrong?

Over the weekend, social media posts began circulating that showed cracks and visible lines on the iPhone Duo's inner display. The reported damage appeared near the central hinge, where the phone folds open and closed.

Considering that folding screen technology is the phone's biggest selling point, problems in that exact spot are raising some obvious questions about its durability.

Apple Says It Will Replace Affected Phones

Apple has confirmed that a small number of iPhone Duo units are experiencing inner-display issues and is directing customers with problems to AppleCare for replacements.

"We are aware of an issue impacting the inner display on a small number of iPhone Duo units," Apple said in a statement. "If users experience issues with their iPhone Duo display, they should contact AppleCare for a replacement."

The company also indicated that affected devices tend to show the problem relatively quickly, suggesting that owners may notice an issue early on.

If you've already purchased an iPhone Duo and spot cracks or unusual lines on the inside screen, your best bet is to contact AppleCare to discuss a replacement.

The Big Picture: Apple's First Foldable iPhone

The iPhone Duo represents a major shift for Apple, introducing a smartphone that folds open like a book. In its compact form, the device is roughly the size of a U.S. passport, with a 5.4-inch screen that expands to a much larger 7.6-inch display when unfolded.

Apple says the inner screen is the largest display ever featured on an iPhone, offering 50% more screen area than the iPhone 18 Pro Max.

That's a lot of screen real estate — but customers will understandably want to know that it can handle everyday use without developing cracks along the fold.

Should Buyers Be Worried?

For now, Apple says the issue affects only a small number of devices. That doesn't necessarily mean the entire lineup has a durability problem, but reports of damaged screens so soon after launch are unlikely to inspire confidence among shoppers considering a foldable phone.

The good news is that Apple is offering replacements for affected units. The bigger question is whether these early problems remain isolated incidents or turn into a more widespread headache for the company's first folding iPhone.

After all, a phone that folds in half is supposed to double your screen space — not give you twice the reason to worry about it.

The 5 Best Stores to Buy Halloween Candy This Year

Halloween is right around the corner, which means it’s time to forget about eating healthy and start making some very important decisions: chocolate or gummies? Name-brand candy or budget-friendly treats? And most importantly, where can you get the most candy for your money?

Whether you’re preparing for hundreds of trick-or-treaters, stocking up for a Halloween party, or just looking for an excuse to buy a ridiculous amount of candy for yourself, not all stores are created equal.

Here are five of the best places to stock up on Halloween candy, depending on your budget, sweet tooth and commitment to the spooky season.

1. Target: Best Overall Halloween Candy Selection

If Halloween candy shopping were an Olympic sport, Target would be a serious contender for the gold medal. The store goes all-in on spooky season, with aisles packed with classic favorites, seasonal sweets and plenty of Halloween-themed treats.

You can stock up on assorted candy bars, grab a package of Halloween Oreo cookies or try something a little different from Target’s Favorite Day brand. From chocolate lovers to gummy candy fanatics, there’s something for just about everyone.

Target is also a great option if you want your candy shopping to feel like part of the Halloween experience. Just be warned: You might walk in for one bag of candy and leave with decorations, costumes, pumpkin-flavored snacks and a shopping cart full of things you absolutely did not need.

2. Walmart: Best for Convenience and Name-Brand Favorites

When it comes to finding familiar candy brands at competitive prices, Walmart is tough to beat. Its larger stores typically offer plenty of options, including bags of assorted chocolate bars, gummy candies and individually wrapped treats perfect for handing out on Halloween night.

Walmart is a practical choice for shoppers who want to get everything in one trip without visiting multiple stores. You can pick up your Halloween candy alongside groceries, party supplies and just about everything else on your list.

It might not have the same festive shopping atmosphere as some competitors, but if your main goal is filling the candy bowl without emptying your wallet, Walmart deserves a spot on your list.

3. Dollar Tree: Best for Budget-Friendly Candy

Halloween can get expensive, especially if your neighborhood attracts a small army of trick-or-treaters. That's where Dollar Tree comes in.

The discount retailer can be a good place to find affordable candy, including smaller packages and seasonal assortments. Depending on the location and current inventory, shoppers may find options such as mini candy bars, sour candies and other individually wrapped treats.

The catch? Popular Halloween candy can disappear quickly as October gets closer. If you find a good deal, don't assume it'll still be there next weekend.

Check your local store early, compare package sizes and pay attention to how much candy you're getting for the price. Dollar Tree can be a great option for stretching your budget, but the best deals depend on what's available at your location.

4. Costco: Best for Buying Candy in Bulk

If your house is the neighborhood's unofficial Halloween headquarters, Costco might be your best bet.

The warehouse retailer is known for its large packages and bulk buying options, making it a convenient choice for anyone expecting a steady stream of trick-or-treaters. Depending on the seasonal selection, you may find assorted bags featuring familiar candy brands, gummies and other individually wrapped sweets.

Buying in bulk can save you repeated trips to the store, especially if you're preparing for a Halloween party or stocking up for a busy neighborhood.

Of course, there's one potential downside: You may end up with enough leftover candy to last until Easter. But if that's a problem, we're sure someone in your household will volunteer to help.

5. Trader Joe's: Best for Unique and Festive Treats

Not everyone wants to hand out the same mini chocolate bars as every other house on the block. If you're looking for something a little more unusual, Trader Joe's is worth checking out.

The grocery chain is known for its seasonal products and quirky snacks, and Halloween is another opportunity to find festive goodies. Past and seasonal offerings have included Halloween Gummies and Spooky Bats & Cats Sour Gummy Candies, along with other fall-themed sweets and desserts.

Trader Joe's is particularly appealing if you're hosting a Halloween gathering and want to put together a candy spread that looks a little more creative than a giant bowl of assorted chocolate.

Just remember that seasonal products can sell out, and availability varies by store. You may also want to grab some familiar name-brand candy elsewhere if you're shopping specifically for trick-or-treaters who have strong opinions about their sweets.

So, Where Should You Buy Your Halloween Candy?

The best store ultimately depends on what matters most to you.

• Best overall selection: Target

• Best for convenience and familiar brands: Walmart

• Best for budget-conscious shoppers: Dollar Tree

• Best for bulk buying: Costco

• Best for unique seasonal treats: Trader Joe's

One final tip: Don't wait until Halloween afternoon to do your shopping. Popular candy can sell out as the big night approaches, and the last thing you want is to be stuck handing out raisins to disappointed kids.

Unless, of course, you're trying to become the neighborhood's most feared Halloween house.

Happy haunting — and happy candy shopping!

VOTE HERE

Image Credit: notaweddingcrasher.com 

Want to Crash a Wedding? There’s a Website That Can Make It Happen

Ever dreamed of showing up at a wedding, enjoying the food, hitting the dance floor and celebrating with a bunch of strangers? Now there’s a website that could help make that happen — and you don’t even have to sneak past the seating chart!

Not a Wedding Crasher is a website that connects couples with extra seats at their weddings to people looking for a unique night out. The idea comes from Jeff and Karina Besen, a long-married San Diego couple who wanted to shake up their usual date-night routine.

Instead of trying another restaurant or movie night, the couple came up with a way for people to experience the excitement of a wedding without knowing the bride, groom or anyone else in attendance.

“Weddings are unforgettable experiences, but you can’t just show up to one,” the website explains. The goal is to make those experiences possible through invitations, mutual respect and a little adventure.

How Does Not a Wedding Crasher Work?

Couples with extra seats can list their weddings on the website and set a price for each available spot. Interested guests can then request to attend, but there's one important catch: The bride and groom get the final say on who gets an invitation.

So, no sneaking into the reception, pretending you're Cousin Steve or grabbing a plate of prime rib before anyone notices. You have to be approved first!

The website says all users are identity-verified, with an emphasis on host approval, clear expectations and safety for both couples and guests.

Why Would Couples Invite Strangers to Their Wedding?

Weddings can be expensive, and unexpected cancellations can leave couples paying for empty seats. The platform gives them a chance to recoup some of those costs or meet venue requirements that call for a minimum number of guests.

Meanwhile, the invited crashers get a chance to dress up, enjoy a celebration and potentially make new friends — all without having to know someone getting married.

The founders say the idea is about creating meaningful connections and making wedding celebrations feel more complete.

Of course, it might take a little courage to spend an evening celebrating the love of two people you've never met. But if you've always wanted to experience the open bar, wedding cake and dance-floor chaos without being on anyone's guest list, this might be your chance.

Want to see if you can score an invitation? Check out Not a Wedding Crasher and see where your next unexpected night out could take you.