October is always a fun month for families. It’s time for little ones to enjoy spook-free Halloween parades and costumed play dates. Older kids get into the ghoul, gore and zombie side of the holiday while parents try to make the entire special and memorable for the kids AND themselves!

But between DIY costumes, pumpkin carving and home decor, putting together a creative party can seem like just another item on an already full to-do list.Our advice? Invest in a few shortcuts, like outsourcing the catering to a place that makes food as good as it looks.

Below, you’ll find examples of spooky bites and sips from Palmers, a family-run market and caterer in Darien, CT. Whether you’re having a fall chili block party, having friends over before trick or treating, throwing a murder-mystery party, or doing anything spooktacular this October, let their ideas inspire all your party needs!

CLASSIC HALLOWEEN

THE ULTIMATE CHILI PARTY

ZOMBIES EVERYWHERE!

HAUNTED HOUSE