Picture this: one waltzes into his local HomeGoods store on a warm September day, thinking he can purchase some discount summer decor for the next year–only, all of the summer items are already gone! The fake palm trees and umbrellas have been replaced by pumpkins and plastic spiders, the shelves stocked with fall decor. 

It seems as the years go on that stores release holiday items earlier and earlier. Those who welcomed this early Halloween were delighted to see such decorations, but for many, celebrating holidays before their due time can ruin the celebration completely. 

This Halloween, many were excited to return to customs post-pandemic, such as trick-or-treating and wearing creative costumes. Typically, retailers release their holiday products earlier than the holiday season; however, this year, stores decided to harness that excitement a little too early, displaying Halloween googies even before Labor Day. 

“I see Halloween stuff out in September and I just laugh,” said senior Isabella Sferazza. “At that time, Halloween seemed so far away. It makes me feel less in the mood to dress up because I feel like retailers just want me to buy stuff and not fully enjoy the holiday,” she added.

Why do retailers do this? Well, as more retailers flood the market, the more competitive that market becomes. This business strategy is used to test products on consumers before the busy season of the holidays. This is successful for many businesses, but it tends to turn shoppers’ necks with the ridiculously inconsistent seasonal products.

“Halloween is not the same holiday as all the others,” said senior Kate Dooling. “I don’t need months of preparation to dress up in a costume and ask for candy. It feels rushed, and I like to be in the moment,” she added. Holidays should never feel rushed. Even Halloween is meant to be enjoyed and celebrated between family and friends. Rushing it takes the fun out of the festivities and soils its purpose. 

Despite the increase in sales from selling Halloween candy and decorations early, the majority of people grumble at the sight of the shelves being prematurely stocked for a holiday they are not prepared for. “Many are just not ready for Halloween so early,” said senior Emmie Paladino. “The shelves being stocked so early makes me feel like time is flying by too fast,” she added.

Though shoppers may be eager to get into the spooky spirit of Halloween, retailers should take a hint from Mother Nature and wait their turn to push holiday products.