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Trick-or-Treat Prep: 7 Trending Halloween Costumes to Try with the Kids This Year

Level up your kids’ trick-or-treat style this year

Halloween is officially around the corner, and let’s be honest: it’s one of the most exciting times of the year for families. Beyond the mountain of sweet treats and neighborhood parties, Halloween gives us a chance to connect with our kids, get creative, and make core memories together. Whether you’re a parent who plans outfits months in advance or a master of the last-minute DIY dash, seeing your child step into their favorite character is always magic.

Thanks to a huge year in family cinema, animation, and nostalgic pop culture, 2026 offers no shortage of inspiration. If you’re still looking for that perfect look, here are 7 costume ideas that are bound to dominate the trick-or-treat circuit this season!

Photo: Disguise

1. Bluey and Bingo

The Bluey fever shows no signs of slowing down, and we’re not complaining! Kids love the relatable shenanigans of the Heeler family, while parents secretly adore the gentle parentingGentle ParentingAn approach built on empathy, respect, understanding, and firm boundaries. Instead of punishment, parents acknowledge feelings, set clear limits, and guide behavior with calm explanations, aiming for cooperation rather than lessons hidden in every episode. Dressing your little ones up as Bluey and Bingo—or going all out as the entire Heeler crew with Bandit and Chilli—is a wholesome, crowd-pleasing option for siblings and whole families alike.

  • Parent Tip: Onesie costumes or matching colored hoodies with felt dog ears attached to headbands make this look cozy and easy to assemble at home.

2. Forgotten Island’s Jo and Raissa

For millennial parents, Halloween is the ultimate chance to blend local nostalgia with family fun. Dressing up your kids—or joining them—as Jo and Raissa from Forgotten Island hits all the right notes of Y2K nostalgia and Pinoy pride. It’s a wonderful conversation starter that lets you share a piece of your own childhood fashion with your kids, complete with late-90s layered outfits and retro hair accessories.

  • Parent Tip: Raid your local thrift store or your own closet for vintage denim, colorful windbreakers, and iconic Y2K hair clips.
Photo: Pinterest

3. Toy Story 5 Gang

Toy Story remains a timeless classic across generations. With the buzz surrounding Toy Story 5, expect to see a fresh wave of Little Bo Peeps, Buzz Lightyears, Woodys, and Jessies roaming the neighborhood. These characters are instantly recognizable and ideal for groups of friends or multi-child households.

  • Parent Tip: For toddlers who don’t like heavy costumes, a graphic Toy Story tee paired with a denim vest, bandanna, and cowboy hat keeps them comfy while still looking the part.
Photo: Target

4. Moana

Following the huge buzz of the live-action release earlier this year, Moana is top of mind for many brave little adventurers. Moana’s iconic red top, woven skirt, and Heart of Te Fiti necklace represent strength, curiosity, and independenceIndependenceA child's growing ability to do things alone, from dressing and eating to making choices and solving problems. Parents encourage it by assigning age-appropriate tasks, allowing safe mistakes, and praising—qualities every parent loves to see in their child.

  • Parent Tip: Skip heavy makeup and focus on comfortable grass-style skirts, breathable fabrics, and a simple ocean-inspired flower hair clip.
Photo: Pinterest

5. PAW Patrol Pups

When in doubt, call the PAW Patrol! Ryder and his team of heroic pups remain a staple for toddlers and preschoolers. Whether your child wants to be Chase, Marshall, Skye, or Rubble, these rescue pups allow kids to step into the shoes of community heroes who are always ready to save the day.

  • Parent Tip: Use color-coordinated sweatpants and hoodies as your base, then add a cardboard-crafted pup pack and matching pup ears.
Photo: Pinterest

6. Supergirl

Girl power takes center stage this Halloween! Building on last year’s superhero craze, Supergirl is a fantastic choice for girls who want to feel brave, strong, and empowered. It’s an iconic look that easily adapts to warm-weather trick-or-treating or cozy layered indoor parties.

  • Parent Tip: Swap stiff plastic outfits for a soft blue long-sleeve shirt, a classic red tulle skirt, and a light fabric cape so your superhero can run around freely.
Photo: Pinterest

7. Super Mario World

Following the hit Super Mario Galaxy movie release earlier this year, the Mushroom Kingdom is making a massive comeback. Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Rosalina, and Yoshi are perfect for big family costumes or sibling groups.

  • Parent Tip: Denim overalls, colorful t-shirts, and stick-on felt mustaches make this one of the most budget-friendly DIY options on the list.

Frequently Asked Questions

Top trending costumes for kids in 2026 include characters from recent family movie hits and TV shows, such as Bluey and Bingo, Moana, Supergirl, Super Mario characters, and classic favorites from Toy Story and PAW Patrol.

Start with a base of solid-colored clothing (like sweatpants and a hoodie) matching your character’s main color. Add DIY accents using felt, cardboard, or fabric paint—such as pup ears for PAW Patrol or a felt ‘M’ logo for Super Mario.

Prioritize soft, breathable fabrics, avoid long skirts or capes that pose tripping hazards, and ensure accessories are lightweight with no sharp edges or small parts.

More Halloween

Spooky & Sweet: The Ultimate Guide to Kids’ Halloween Parties Across Metro Manila This 2026
Halloween 2025: Family-Friendly Spooktaculars Across the Philippines
Classic Halloween Movies And Shows To Binge Watch

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