Belknap House, Climaxe Throwing among Lakes Region drop-off locations for Halloween costumes

Not all families have an attic full of Halloween costumes to pick from each year, and for many struggling to make ends meet, when it comes time to buy groceries or a $60 costume, it’s a no-brainer.

But no kid should go without a costume on Halloween, and several Lakes Region businesses have teamed up with S.C.A.R.E. NH, a nonprofit dedicated to distributing secondhand costumes across the Granite State, to make sure every kid gets one, no questions asked.

“We are trying to break down those financial barriers that prevent children and families from enjoying everything that is Halloween,” said Jesse Palmer, “head hauntcho” at S.C.A.R.E. NH. “We believe that every little ghost and goblin deserves to experience all the magic and mayhem of Halloween while wearing that perfect costume. However, that is not always possible in today’s world, and putting food on the table or a roof over their heads should be the bigger priority.”

In 2024, over 1,300 costumes were distributed through S.C.A.R.E., and in Laconia, Belknap House is joining in this year’s endeavor to distribute more than 2,000.

“We are trying to provide children in need with Halloween costumes, whether they’re gently used or whatever people can donate,” said Susan O’Donnell, member of the board of directors for Belknap House, the only shelter with space for families in Belknap County. “I went to a Halloween store and went to pick up some costumes and my jaw dropped. Minimum ... the cheapest I could find was a $30 toddler costume, very basic.”

Between the hours of 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. through Sunday, Oct. 12, donations can be brought to Belknap House at 200 Court St. in Laconia, whether costumes for adults or children.

Nearby, in Belmont on Old State Road, Climaxe Throwing is collecting donations and also serving as a distribution site.

“I think it's kind of a lost holiday among charities. I don't think people often think about how expensive Halloween can be for struggling families,” said Brian Hanson, director of marketing for Climaxe Throwing. “[The] community is very important to us, and anything we can do to help children and families in need, we will do.”

Folks who donate a costume to Climaxe Throwing will receive a 10% off coupon for axe-throwing, and donations can be dropped off during normal business hours, available at sportscarnival.com/clubs/climaxe_throwing.

Other Halloween costume collection sites in the Lakes Region include Identity Coffee and Midnight Moon Tattoo in Meredith; Sweet Caroline in Alton; and Bricks at The Lake in Wolfeboro.

All locations are outfitted with a donation box hand-painted by kids — Halloween-themed, of course.

For those looking to pick-up a free costume for themselves or a loved one, there are two local distribution sites. From 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 7, costumes will be distributed at Lakes Region Community Services in Laconia. A few days later, on Monday, Oct. 13, Climaxe Axe in will distribute costumes from 4 to 7 p.m.

Palmer just wants to spread the spooky fun times.

“With our bony fingers crossed, we will provide more than 2,000 of those costumes to families in need.”

For more information, visit scarenh.org.