Spirits and spending are expected to rise in 2010, as 148 million Americans celebrate Halloween by spending $66.28 on decorations, candy and costumes. This amount bounces back to 2008 levels, and is up from last year's per-consumer average of $56.31, according to the National Retail Federation's 2010 Halloween Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey, conducted by BIGsearch. Total spending for Halloween is expected to reach $5.8 billion.

“In recent years, Halloween has provided a welcome break from reality, allowing many Americans a chance to escape from the stress the economy has put on their family and incomes,” said NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay. “This year, people are expected to embrace Halloween with even more enthusiasm, and will have an entire weekend to celebrate since the holiday falls on a Sunday.”

That per-person amount might seem like a lot, even at 2009's amount. Among the NRF's survey findings:

• More than half (50.1%) of consumers will decorate their homes and yards; second only to the winter holidays
• Consumers will spend $1.6 billion on Halloween decorations
• Candy will be given to trick-or-treaters by 72.2% of consumers
• Four out of 10 people will wear a costume
• An estimated 46.3% will carve a pumpkin

“Though Halloween spending will be much more robust than a year ago, consumers will still err on the side of caution,” said Phil Rist, Executive Vice President, Strategic Initiatives, BIGsearch. “Americans are excited about Halloween but are still being frugal and pinching their pennies where they can.”

So how do consumers cut down on Halloween spending? One way is to use last year's (or previous years') Halloween decorations. Other ways: swapping or borrowing decorations and costumes or making your own.