Halloween Costume Tips for Kids

Each October, families are invited to Swangard Stadium to take part in Monster Dash 5K, one of the signature events of the Burnaby Halloween Festival, featuring a special Mini Monster Dash (400 m) just for little track-troopers. We’re excited to partner with Jan & Jul to share smart costume tips, think warm layers, inventive touches, and fun accents, so young racers can move freely, stay cozy, and shine in the spirit of Halloween.

Whether your family lives right here in Burnaby or you’re visiting from out of town, Monster Dash offers a playful mix of athletic adventure, festive fun, and community spirit, all in a welcoming, family-friendly setting.

Easy Costume Tips

1. Start with smart base layers

• Select thermal or moisture-wicking long underwear (top + bottom) to manage sweat and trap warmth without bulk.
• A snug base layer helps keep outer costume pieces in place and reduces chafing.

2. Choose a lightweight insulating mid-layer

• Thin fleece pieces or brushed knit fabric make excellent mid-layers, cozy but flexible.
• Ensure the material stretches or moves well across joints (knees, elbows) so nothing restricts motion.

3. Use a windproof/water-resistant shell as your costume “canvas”

• A light shell or jacket (water-resistant or waterproof) helps block wind or drizzle.
• It also offers a base on which you can attach costume elements (felt wings, appliqués, etc.) without sacrificing protection.
• Go for shells with good shoulder cut and articulation so the costume doesn’t drag or flap uncontrollably.

c: DIY Lion Costume designed by Christy, Alaska, USA

4. Design for movement

• Avoid stiff material at joints, consider stretch panels, gussets, or knits in knees and elbows.
• Use elastic waistbands, adjustable drawstrings, or soft bindings to keep layers aligned during the run.
• Keep capes, skirts, or flaps fairly short and manageable (nothing that bites you on the finish line).

5. Make safe, lightweight accessories

• Opt for felt, foam, craft foam, or thin, durable cardboard for wings, horns, or masks.
• Fasten with elastic, Velcro, or soft ties, avoid rigid wires that could be dangerous or uncomfortable.
• Add reflective tape or glow strips to edges for visibility in low light.

6. Layer with intention

• Coordinate the sleeve and leg lengths across all layers so nothing bunches or exposes cold spots.
• In chillier weather, thin glove liners or knit mitts that tuck under decorative accessories can make all the difference.

DIY Octopus Costume

Eight arms, zero stress! This ocean-inspired costume comes together faster than you can say “tentacle.” Grab a cozy fleece outfit as your base, then stick a pair of googly eyes to the hood or headband for instant underwater charm. Stuff some long socks with fiberfill or scrap fabric to create squishy tentacles, then sew them to a ribbon belt. Tie it around your little one’s waist, and just like that, your mini octopus is ready to dash across dry land!

DIY Ladybug Costume

Cute, cheerful, and totally flutter-worthy! Cut red poster board into two big half-circles to make the wings, then glue or tape them together at the top so they fan out slightly. Add black paper dots for that classic ladybug look and attach straps so your little bug can wear them like a backpack. For the antennae, twist pipe cleaners with pom-poms onto a headband. Pair with cozy black layers, mittens, and boots, perfect for a breezy fall dash or an afternoon of trick-or-treating.

DIY Lion Costume

A little drizzle won’t dampen this roar-some look! Start by wrapping brown or golden yarn around your fingers about 30 times, tie it off, and snip the loops to make fluffy pom-poms. String them together on a braided yarn cord to form a big, bold mane. Cut two small felt ears and glue them in place, then tie the mane around your child’s head. Add a nose and whiskers with face paint, and voilà, your brave little lion is ready to prowl through puddles or parade down the Monster Dash track in warm, waterproof comfort!

c: Jan & Jul

Race Day Checklist 

• Dress rehearsal: Have your child wear the full costume and move (run, twist, jump) to spot binding or flapping hazards.
• Check the forecast: If it’s cold or rainy, add a slim extra wrap (neck gaiter, thin fleece) beneath the costume.
• Name everything: Label hidden seams or tags in case parts get dropped or separated.
• Repair kit essentials: Pack safety pins, thread + needle, spare elastic, tape, etc.
• Warm up & cool down: Even in costume, a light warm-up and cooldown help ease stiffness.
• Extra layers at the sidelines: Keep a spare sweatshirt, blanket or rain poncho close by post-run.

Bring Your Monsters. Bring Your Energy.

Whether you’re here from near or far, Monster Dash 5K is your invitation to take part in one of Burnaby’s most spirited fall traditions. Let your imagination lead the costume design, let your legs do the dashing, and let community smiles power the finish line.

Join the fun at Swangard Stadium during the Burnaby Halloween Festival each October.