Halloween is a fun and spooky holiday that brings out many traditions, including the annual “booing” of friends and neighbors. This tradition involves leaving boo buckets or treat on someone’s doorstep anonymously, along with a note that says “You’ve been booed!” The recipient is then encouraged to continue the tradition by “booing” someone else in the neighborhood. This friendly prank creates a sense of community and excitement, as everyone waits to see who will be “booed” next. It’s a great way to bring people together and spread some Halloween cheer.
We’re here to share all the inspiration from boo buckets, what to put inside your boo, and free printable tags.
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What is “Booing” Someone on Halloween?
A Halloween “boo” is a fun and spooky tradition that has become popular in recent years. Essentially, it involves leaving a surprise gift or treat on someone’s doorstep, along with a note that says “You’ve been booed!” The recipient is then encouraged to continue the tradition by “booing” someone else in their neighborhood, and so on.
Part of the appeal of the Halloween boo is that it allows people to connect with their neighbors in a fun and low-pressure way. It’s a chance to spread some Halloween cheer and get into the spirit of the season. Plus, it’s always exciting to come home to a surprise gift or treat, especially when it’s unexpected!
What Should Go in Boo Buckets?
When it comes to small gifts for a Halloween boo basket, there are plenty of options to choose from. Some popular choices include mini pumpkin candles, spooky stickers, candy corn, and Halloween-themed socks. You could also consider adding some fun Halloween toys like plastic fangs or spider rings. Whatever you choose, be sure to have fun with it and embrace the spooky spirit of the season!
When we first started the “boo” tradition in our homes, our go-to basket was the super affordable Halloween-themed plastic buckets you can find from the Target Dollar Spot, your local grocery store, Walmart, Dollar Tree, etc.
Then we’d fill them will all sorts of fun, little gifts.
One of the gifts that we enjoyed the most were the Halloween-themed baking supplies, which included a seasonal cake mix, a tub of frosting, some sprinkles, and cupcake liners. We found this combination of items to be particularly delightful because it was both affordable and had a significant impact. Additionally, it encouraged a fun and engaging family activity that we all could enjoy together.
As the neighbor kids have gotten older, the gifts have evolved a little bit. Last year, we packaged up Halloween socks, Halloween-themed hand sanitizers from Bath and Body Works and seasonal TicTacs in cellophane bags.
Boo Buckets Are Not Just For Kids!
Are you looking for a thoughtful gift to give to grandparents, teachers, girlfriends or co-workers? You might want to consider putting together a charming coffee-themed present like the one we have assembled here.
Pick up any of the extensive selection of pumpkin-flavored treats, candies, or seasonal snacks from Trader Joe’s. See what fall items from Trader Joe’s we think are best!
Creative Boo Messages or Poems to Include
Are you searching for a sweet message or poem to add to your boo bucket? Look no further, we’ve crafted a few that are sure to bring a smile to their face and warm their heart. Our suggestions are versatile and will be appreciated by anyone.
- Beneath the moon’s eerie glow, the creatures of the night begin to show. But don’t be afraid, my dear friend, for this basket of goodies I send. May your Halloween be filled with fright and delight, as you indulge in these treats all through the night.
- Trick or treat, smell my feet, don’t be scared, it’s just me! I hope these spooky snacks bring a smile to your face, and make your Halloween a hauntingly good place.
- The leaves are falling, the air is crisp, it’s Halloween time, can you feel the twist? From ghosts to goblins, and witches too, this basket of treats is just for you. So enjoy these sweets with all your might, and have a spooky Halloween night.
- Knock knock, who’s there? A Halloween boo basket, if you dare! I hope these treats put a spell on you, and make your Halloween dreams come true.
Free Halloween Boo Printable
We have crafted two Halloween-themed printable sheets that are absolutely free for our readers. The first one is a ghostly set of tags that showcase a combination of vivid and eerie text. Our second printable sheet is a coloring page that you can include in your boo bucket. Your children can either color it before delivering their gift or add to the boo buckets. Just click on the image to print it out.
Free Printable Halloween Boo Coloring Page
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Jenny says
My kids have been begging me to do Boo Buckets this year for our neighbors. Thanks for the ideas and printables…now I have zero excuses not to do it. 🙂 I love all of the non-candy options, since candy is so plentiful this time of year (and for the next 2 months, for that matter).
~Jenny
http://www.introvertsguidetosobriety.com/
Tiffany says
I had never heard of them until a few weeks ago. I love the idea! We got boo-ed last week. It was so fun putting together buckets for neighbors.
Jess says
Love this idea!!
I would love for you to share this with my Facebook Group for recipes, crafts, tips, and tricks: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pluckyrecipescraftstips/
Thanks for joining Cooking and Crafting with J & J!
Cathy says
I have read about these online but never heard about them locally (Southern Ontario). Is it a regional thing?
Erica Schmidt says
I absolutely love this! It’s like a May Day basket, which I am sad I haven’t done in way too long! Thanks for the great idea!
Kristi Wheeler says
I love this idea! I plan on giving my neighbor a boo bag for her kitty!
ShootingStarsMag says
I really love this idea! I think it’s a lot of fun, especially if you have a lot of neighborhood kids – not that people have to have children to get these, but I think involving kids in this would make it exciting!
-Lauren
Kim~madeinaday says
Great ideas for booing!Thanks for linking up to Merry Monday! Pinned! Have a great week!
Kim
Wendy Nielsen says
Thanks Kim!