promoearn: 🎃 A scary-good Halloween edition

Friday, October 30, 2026

🎃 A scary-good Halloween edition

Friday, October 30

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The Daily Briefing

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Good morning! It's Friday, Oct. 30, and today you should know this edition is all about Halloween 🎃 But don't worry, there are no tricks here — only treats, like these deals and freebies. If you're just looking for the latest headlines, scroll to the bottom of this email.

I’m Mallorie Sullivan, and while I'm out, I thought it'd be a great time to highlight some of our scary-good Halloween stories and your tips for holiday hosting! We'll return to regular programming Monday.

🍫 If candy is your priority

When it comes to Halloween candy, everyone has a favorite. From chocolate classics (like my personal fave, Reese’s Peanut Butter Pumpkins ) to more divisive treats (cough candy corn cough), Americans have some pretty strong preferences depending on where they live. Think you know which candy comes out on top in your state? See if you’re right.

•	Halloween candy sales are down. Here's what's driving the decrease.
•	Notice less chocolate in your bag this year? There's a reason for that.
•	Also, learn how your candy choices can trigger unexpected taxes.

🎃 If you have Halloween plans

•	Before you head out, check your Halloween weather forecast.
•	These Halloween rules have lasted decades. But do they work?
•	What's everyone dressing up as this year? This might be a clue.
•	If you're stressed about your Halloween look, you're not alone.
•	And if you're flying in costume, check what the TSA allows.

Ariana Torrey USA TODAY

🎬 If you love a good scare ...

Then Halloween is basically your Super Bowl. From classics like "Scream" and "The Shining," to newer releases like "Obsessed" and "Backrooms," there are so many scary movies to choose from, that deciding what to watch can be half the battle. Luckily for you, our team has compiled several lists, including the essentials, newer horror movies, genre-based recs, and the ones to watch before you die.

•	Did you hear that noise? Meet the creatures said to haunt America’s woods.

🍬 The rest of the good stuff

•	Check out the most striking Halloween displays across the United States — especially this one.
•	If you're hosting a Halloween party, you've gotta make this dessert.
•	And if you need a house cocktail, here are five wickedly good ones.
•	My personal favorite tradition? Heidi Klum's Halloween costumes.
•	And speaking of iconic getups: Dogs in costume!

☝️ One more thing

Last month, I asked you to send me your tips for holiday hosting. As we close in on the unofficial start of the holiday season, I'm sharing a few bits of advice from our readers so you can get a jump-start on your own planning:

•	📊 Use a spreadsheet: "We have a spreadsheet for four days of meals, and a spreadsheet for shopping ahead," reader Candice F. told me. "Every year ... I make notes about what was eaten, what we might need more of, and what was left over, and adjust the spreadsheet accordingly."
•	🧅 Pick up items before you need them: Start by making a list of things you need, and do this early (readers Myranda V. and Winter start in September and October, respectively). Then, add 1-2 items from your list when you go to the store. This helps spread out the cost over weeks or months instead of days.
•	🍷 And keep a bottle of wine on hand: Reader Paul F. said his grandmother taught him to "always start a big holiday meal with a glass of wine, if appropriate. ... If you've burned the roast, pass the wine and make another toast to friends and family." Solid advice.

Keep scrolling for the latest headlines — and here’s your crossword! I’ll be back on Monday 👋

Have feedback for me? Send me a message at msullivan@usatoday.com, I'd love to hear from you! Was this email forwarded to you? Sign up here to get it in your inbox daily.