Every October, the same question echoes through LA households: “What are you going to be for Halloween?” Some kids decide in July and never waver. Others change their minds four times before breakfast. Either way, you’re the one who has to make it happen.

To make your life easier, we’ve rounded up 23 fun Halloween costumes for kids in 2026, from this year’s biggest movie characters to preschool favorites, gamer picks, and timeless classics that never go out of style. We’ve also included tips on where to shop in LA, how to DIY on a budget, and how to keep costumes comfortable on a warm Southern California Halloween.

The Hottest Movie Halloween Costumes for Kids in 2026

It was a big year at the movies for families, and you’ll see plenty of those characters trick-or-treating this October. If your kids are fans, shop early, because the most popular movie costumes tend to sell out first.

1. Woody, Jessie, and Buzz Lightyear

With Toy Story 5 in theaters this summer, the toys are back in a big way. A cowboy hat and vest make an easy Woody or Jessie, while a Buzz Lightyear costume is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s also one of the best sibling or family group costumes of the year.

2. Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie made Mario and his friends a hot pick for 2026. The costumes are simple to recognize and easy to assemble, with overalls, a colored cap, and a mustache for the brothers or a pink gown and crown for Peach.

3. Moana

Disney’s live-action Moana arrived in theaters this summer, giving a new generation of kids a reason to set sail. A Moana costume works for a wide range of ages, and a toy oar or a plush Pua or Heihei makes a fun accessory.

4. Spider-Man

Spider-Man: Brand New Day swung into theaters at the end of July, and the classic red-and-blue suit is as popular as ever. Since the movie is aimed at older kids and teens, younger fans may prefer the friendly neighborhood version they know from cartoons and toys.

5. The Mandalorian and Grogu

Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu brought the bounty hunter and his tiny green sidekick to the big screen in May. It’s a perfect pairing for a parent and baby, siblings, or a kid who wants to carry a plush Grogu all night long.

6. Minions

Minions and Monsters was another summer hit, and a Minion costume is about as low-stress as it gets. All you need is a yellow shirt, denim overalls, and a pair of goggles, which makes it a great last-minute or DIY option.

7. KPop Demon Hunters

The Netflix sensation is still going strong, and the singers of HUNTR/X, Rumi, Mira, and Zoey, are among the most-requested costumes for 2026. They’re a natural fit for a group of friends or siblings, and some fans also dress as the Saja Boys.

8. Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde

Zootopia 2 put the bunny cop and the sly fox back in the spotlight, and the pair makes an adorable duo costume. Bunny ears and a police vest make a simple Judy, while a green shirt, tie, and fox ears create an easy Nick.

Preschool Favorites

For toddlers and preschoolers, comfort is everything. These characters are recognizable, cozy, and easy to wear for a full night of trick-or-treating.

9. Bluey and Bingo

The Heeler sisters remain preschool royalty. Soft, pajama-style Bluey and Bingo costumes are warm enough for an evening outing and easy for little ones to wear. Grown-ups can join in as Bandit and Chilli.

10. Gabby and Pandy Paws

Gabby’s Dollhouse fans will love dressing as Gabby, complete with cat ears, or as her plush sidekick Pandy Paws. It’s a sweet choice for kids who love anything crafty and cat-themed.

11. PAW Patrol Pups

Chase, Marshall, Skye, and the rest of the pups are a reliable win for the preschool crowd. Many PAW Patrol costumes come with a pup pack or hat, which kids love to show off.

Gamer and Pop-Culture Picks

School-age kids and tweens often want costumes inspired by the games and shows they love. These picks are fun to wear and easy to personalize.

12. Minecraft Steve, Alex, or Creeper

Minecraft costumes are a perennial favorite, and the blocky look is easy to DIY with cardboard boxes and paint. A Creeper costume is especially fun if your kid enjoys a little mischief.

13. Pikachu and Pokémon Trainers

Pokémon is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2026, so expect to see plenty of Pikachus and Poké Ball-toting trainers this year. A trainer costume only needs a cap, a jacket, and a toy Poké Ball.

14. Wednesday Addams

For tweens who like their Halloween a little moody, Wednesday Addams is still a top pick. A black dress with a white collar, two braids, and a deadpan expression complete the look.

Spooky-Cute Classics

Not every kid wants to be a movie character, and that’s part of the fun. These classic Halloween costumes are affordable, easy to find, and look great in photos.

15. Witch or Wizard

A pointy hat, a cape, and a broom never go out of style. Witch and wizard costumes are easy to layer over warm clothes and can be as sparkly or as spooky as your child likes.

16. Black Cat

A black cat costume is one of the simplest you can make: black clothes, cat ears, a tail, and a few whiskers drawn on with face paint. It’s cozy, comfortable, and perfect for toddlers.

17. Skeleton

Glow-in-the-dark skeleton costumes are fun to wear and have a built-in safety bonus, since they’re easy to see after dark. Pair one with simple face paint for a playful, not-too-scary look.

18. Pumpkin

A pumpkin costume is a classic for babies and toddlers, and it looks especially cute at a pumpkin patch photo op. Look for soft, lightweight options that won’t overheat your little one.

Timeless Costumes That Never Miss

These costumes work year after year and double as dress-up clothes long after Halloween is over.

19. Dinosaur

Dinosaur costumes are a longtime favorite for preschool and elementary kids, especially the inflatable versions that stomp and wobble down the sidewalk. For a comfortable option, choose a hooded dino jumpsuit.

20. Dragon

Dragons are having a moment in kids’ costumes, with plenty of colorful, winged styles available. They’re a great choice for kids who love fantasy, and wings make for dramatic photos.

21. Unicorn

Rainbow manes, sparkly horns, and a little glitter make a unicorn costume a joyful pick. It’s easy to DIY with a headband horn, a tutu, and colorful leggings.

22. Astronaut

An astronaut costume is perfect for curious kids who dream big. Add a toy helmet and a mission patch, and your little explorer is ready for liftoff.

23. Firefighter

Firefighter costumes celebrate real-life heroes and are a hit with preschoolers. A red helmet, a jacket with reflective stripes, and a toy hose complete the look, and the reflective details help with visibility at night.

Where to Buy (and DIY) Halloween Costumes in LA

If you prefer to shop in person, our guide to Los Angeles costume shops and Halloween stores covers the best places around town to find costumes, wigs, and accessories. Shopping in store lets kids try on sizes, which is a big help since costume sizing varies widely by brand.

For online shopping, browse our Amazon Halloween costume shop for kids’ costumes and accessories. And if you’d rather save money, our DIY Halloween costumes for kids using household items prove you don’t need to spend much to make something memorable.

Costume Tips for LA Parents

Southern California Halloweens can be surprisingly warm during the day and cool at night. Choose breathable fabrics, and pick a costume that works with a light layer underneath so kids stay comfortable from afternoon events to evening trick-or-treating.

Have your child try on the full costume, shoes included, at least once before the big night. Check that it isn’t too long to trip over, and choose face paint over masks when you can so kids can see clearly.

For visibility, add reflective tape to costumes and bags, and carry a flashlight or glow sticks after dark. Our trick-or-treat safety tips have more advice for a safe and happy night.

Takeaway

The best Halloween costume is the one your child is excited to wear. In 2026, movie characters from Toy Story 5, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, and Moana are leading the way, while KPop Demon Hunters, Bluey, and Pokémon remain huge with kids of all ages.

Shop early for popular characters, keep comfort in mind for warm LA evenings, and don’t be afraid to DIY. Once the costume is ready, find the perfect place to show it off with our guide to the best LA neighborhoods for trick-or-treating and our family-friendly Halloween events in Los Angeles.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the most popular Halloween costumes for kids in 2026?

This year’s biggest trends include characters from Toy Story 5, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, Moana, Spider-Man, and KPop Demon Hunters. Preschool favorites like Bluey and PAW Patrol and classics like witches, dinosaurs, and superheroes remain popular too.

2. When should I buy my child’s Halloween costume?

Shop by late September or early October, especially for trending movie characters, which tend to sell out first. Buying early also gives you time to exchange sizes or add finishing touches.

3. What are good group or sibling costume ideas for 2026?

Toy Story characters, Mario and Luigi, the Mandalorian and Grogu, Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, and the singers of HUNTR/X from KPop Demon Hunters all make great group or sibling costumes. Bluey’s family is a sweet option if parents want to join in.

4. How can I make an easy DIY Halloween costume?

Start with clothes your child already owns and add a few key pieces. A black cat, Minion, Minecraft character, or Wednesday Addams costume can all be made at home with basic supplies and a little creativity.

5. How do I keep my child comfortable in a costume on a warm LA night?

Choose breathable, lightweight fabrics and a costume that fits over a light layer. Skip heavy masks, bring water, and plan for cooler temperatures after sunset, when a light jacket can make all the difference.