What Is Summerween? The Halloween Trend Taking Over July

As autumn approaches, many are already planning cozy recipes and seasonal home decor. TikTok has popularized the "summerween" trend, which brings Halloween festivities to July. Rather than waiting for cooler weather to carve pumpkins or stock up on candy corn, summerween offers a chance to enjoy the best aspects of Halloween early. It’s a perfect way to celebrate without the pressure of elaborate costumes, though dressing up is always an option.

What Is Summerween, Exactly?

The concept of summerween traces back to an episode of Disney Channel’s Gravity Falls, where a peculiar town celebrates Halloween twice annually. Inspired by this, young enthusiasts have embraced the summerween trend, hosting July Halloween parties featuring coffin-shaped ice cream sandwiches, candy corn-inspired beverages, watermelon jack-o’-lanterns, and creative crafts.

Summerween allows you to focus on your favorite Halloween elements while skipping the rest (or saving them for October). TikTok user @sheri_wilson_ demonstrates this with a full summerween cookout, complete with pumpkin- and ghost-shaped cheese for burgers and pizza, plus an outdoor movie night under the stars.

How to Celebrate Summerween at Home

Summerween offers more than just the chance to revisit beloved Halloween traditions. Unlike October’s chilly weather, summer evenings allow for extended outdoor activities without the need for heavy layers. Hosting a costume party or screening horror films in the backyard becomes more enjoyable, encouraging guests to stay longer and even consider hosting their own summerween celebrations. Here are some ideas to inspire your event.

Spooky Orange Punch

For a well-rounded snack bar, ensure you include a variety of drinks. Create a punch bowl with orange soda, juice, or a mix of both for a refreshing option that caters to all your guests.

Backyard Graveyard (With Tents)

Transform your backyard into a spooky haven by scattering tombstones across the lawn. Add tents for seating, light a bonfire, and enjoy a night of summer-themed Halloween fun with your guests.

Watermelon or Pineapple Pumpkin Carving

Since pumpkins are a fall harvest, they may be hard to find in summer. Instead, carve watermelons or pineapples for a festive twist, and use the leftover fruit as a tasty party snack.

Jack-O’-Lantern Piñata

Even if pumpkin carving isn’t an option, you can still incorporate them into your decor. Create a fun outdoor activity by filling an orange piñata with candy and decorating it with playful eyes and a grin.

Summerween Movie Night

Wrap up the evening with a horror film, either indoors or projected in the backyard—perfect for a graveyard-themed movie night.

Festive Snacks and Drinks

TikTok user @j.xnah delighted guests with "monster cookies," ghost-shaped melted ice cream, and coffin-inspired ice cream sandwiches at their summerween party. For more themed treats, consider crafting Halloween finger foods like hot dog Frankenstein fingers, Halloween-shaped fruit or veggie platters with dip, macaroni pasta salads in spooky shapes, or magical candy apples.