What Spencer's Sells and Where to Find It
Spencer's is a retail chain that operates in shopping malls and as a standalone store in some locations. The company sells costumes, decorations, novelty items, and party supplies, with a heavy focus on Halloween merchandise during the fall season. You can find Spencer's locations through their website store locator, which shows addresses, hours, and whether each location carries Halloween inventory.
Spencer's also operates an online store where you can order costumes and decorations for delivery or in-store pickup. The online inventory often differs from what appears in physical stores, and some items are exclusive to the website. Shipping times vary depending on how far you are from a distribution center and how close you are to Halloween — orders placed in late October may take longer to arrive than those placed in early September.
The store carries both licensed costumes (based on movies, TV shows, and recognizable characters) and generic costume categories (like "zombie" or "vampire" styles). Prices range from budget options under $30 to elaborate costumes over $100, depending on the level of detail and whether accessories are included.
Key Takeaways
- Spencer's sells Halloween costumes, decorations, and party supplies both in physical stores and online, with inventory that changes as Halloween approaches.
- Licensed character costumes typically cost more than generic styles, and prices increase closer to Halloween as selection narrows.
- Online orders may take one to two weeks depending on the time of year and your location, so ordering early September gives you more time than late October.
- Spencer's stores are located in shopping malls and some standalone locations; the website store locator shows which ones carry Halloween merchandise.
- Return policies and shipping costs vary, so check the website before ordering to understand what you will pay and how long delivery will take.
Costume Selection and Sizing
Spencer's carries costumes in adult sizes, with some locations and online options for children's sizes depending on the specific item. Adult costumes typically run in standard sizes (small through XXL), though fit varies by style — some are cut loose and others fitted. The website usually shows measurements or fit notes, but in-store staff can also help you determine sizing if you visit in person.
Licensed costumes (based on specific characters or franchises) tend to be more expensive and sell out faster as Halloween approaches. Generic costume categories like "sexy" versions of animals or professions, classic monsters, and group costumes remain in stock longer and often go on sale in the final week before Halloween. If you are looking for a specific character costume, ordering online in early to mid-October gives you the best chance of finding your size.
Spencer's also sells costume pieces and accessories separately — masks, wigs, weapons props, and add-ons — so you can build a custom look or complete a costume you already own. These items are usually cheaper than full costumes and can extend what you already have at home.
Pricing and When Prices Change
Spencer's prices fluctuate based on how close you are to Halloween and how much inventory remains. Early September typically shows the widest selection at regular prices. As October progresses and Halloween nears, prices on remaining stock may increase slightly, though some items go on clearance if they are overstocked. The final week before Halloween sometimes includes sales on items the store needs to move, but selection is limited.
Online prices and in-store prices are sometimes different for the same item. Shipping costs are added to online orders unless you choose in-store pickup, which is free. Spencer's occasionally runs promotions — percentage-off sales, buy-one-get-one deals, or free shipping thresholds — so checking the website or signing up for their email list can alert you to these offers.
Costumes that are licensed or newly released tend to hold their price throughout the season. Older styles, generic costumes, and items from previous years are more likely to be discounted as Halloween approaches.
Return and Exchange Policy
Spencer's allows returns and exchanges within a set window, though the exact timeframe depends on whether you purchased in-store or online. In-store purchases typically have a longer return window than online orders. You will need your receipt or the order confirmation email, and items must be in original condition with tags attached.
If you order online and the item arrives damaged or is not what you expected, contact Spencer's customer service through their website to arrange a return or exchange. Shipping costs for returns are usually your responsibility unless the item arrived defective. In-store returns are simpler — you can walk in with the item and receipt and process the return at the register.
Clearance items and final-sale costumes may have different or no return options, so check the product page or receipt before purchasing. If you are unsure whether an item can be returned, ask before you buy.
Comparing Spencer's to Other Halloween Retailers
Spencer's is one option among several places to shop for Halloween costumes and decorations. Party City, Spirit Halloween, and Walmart also carry costumes and decorations, each with different price points, selection, and return policies. Party City tends to have a wider range of party supplies alongside costumes. Spirit Halloween is a seasonal store that opens in August and closes after Halloween, so it operates only during the Halloween shopping window. Walmart offers budget options and everyday items you might need alongside a costume.
Online retailers like Amazon and eBay carry costumes from multiple sellers, which means wider selection but also variation in quality and shipping times. Thrift stores and rental services are alternatives if you want to spend less or wear something unique. Comparing prices across retailers for the specific costume you want can save money, especially if you are flexible about which option you choose.
Spencer's advantage is that it specializes in Halloween and novelty items, so staff are familiar with costume fit and can help you find what you are looking for. The disadvantage is that prices are often higher than big-box retailers, and selection depends on how close you are to Halloween and how busy your local store is.
Shopping Timeline and Inventory Availability
Spencer's typically begins stocking Halloween merchandise in late August or early September. Early September offers the widest selection and the most time to order online if you want delivery before Halloween. Mid-September through mid-October is the peak shopping window — inventory is still full, prices are stable, and you have time for shipping if you order online.
Late October (the final two weeks before Halloween) sees reduced selection as popular items sell out. Prices may increase on remaining stock, or certain items may go on clearance. If you wait until the last week before Halloween, you risk not finding your size or preferred style, though you may find discounted items others have passed over.
If you are ordering online, plan to place your order at least one to two weeks before Halloween to account for shipping time. Orders placed in the final week may not arrive before October 31st, depending on your location and the shipping method you choose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I return a costume if I tried it on but didn't wear it?
Yes, as long as the costume is in original condition with tags attached and you are within the return window. In-store purchases typically have a longer return period than online orders. Bring your receipt or order confirmation to process the return.
Does Spencer's offer plus-size costumes?
Spencer's carries costumes in extended sizes, though availability varies by style and location. Check the website to filter by size, or call your local store to ask what sizes they have in stock for a specific costume.
How long does shipping take from Spencer's online?
Shipping times vary based on your location and how close you are to Halloween. Orders placed in early to mid-October typically arrive within one to two weeks. Orders placed in late October may take longer or may not arrive before Halloween, so check the estimated delivery date before you order.
Are Spencer's costumes the same quality as other retailers?
Quality varies by costume style and price point. Licensed costumes and higher-priced items tend to have better construction than budget options under $30. Reading customer reviews on the website can give you a sense of fit and durability before you purchase.
Can I pick up an online order in-store instead of having it shipped?
Yes, Spencer's offers in-store pickup for online orders at most locations. This option is free and usually faster than shipping, especially if you order close to Halloween. Check the website to see if your local store offers this service.