Going Green for Halloween in Stone Mountain and Lithonia

If you want to save some money this Halloween, consider going green by making your child’s costume, hosting a costume swap or buying a "recycled” costume from a local thrift store.

Kids love homemade costumes, and crafty parents can take pride in creating something amazing based on their imaginations.

You can find inexpensive craft items such as at dollar stores, such as Dollar Tree at 1900 Rockbridge Rd. and Dollar Treet at 5244 Memorial Dr., both in Stone Mountain, and at 6746 Covington Highway in Lithonia.

Hosting a costume swap is another great way to keep old costumes out of landfills. Have a party with a small group such as a preschool class, church group or scout troop.

If you are a member of a local freecycle group, check the latest offers for gently used (or sometimes even brand new, never worn) costumes or craft materials.

Thrift stores offer an array of inexpensive “recycled” costumes for everyone from babies to adults, as well as a large selection of new costumes, masks, hats and Halloween makeup. You can also find used decorations such as pumpkin-shaped votive holders and Halloween-themed candles at a fraction of the price you would pay for new ones.

Check out the FODAC thrift store at 4900 Lewis Rd. in Stone Mountain, for costumes or old/unique clothing that would make a good costume. Consignment store Kid-to-Kid at 5370 Stone Mountain Highway is another option.

Decorate the outside of your home in an environmentally friendly way with pumpkins, squash and dried corn stalks, which can all be composted when the holiday is over.

TELL US: What are some examples of great homemade costumes that are easy to put together? Be sure to upload photos of your green costumes and decorations in the photo gallery above.