Spooky surveys say Utah ranks among top states for Halloween spirit

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SALT LAKE CITY — Utah is ranked one of the best in the nation for Halloween festivities, in two surveys — No. 1 for trick-or-treating and No. 3 for Halloween spirit.

Given the numerous displays sent in from around the state on the KSL.com interactive sight-seeing map, it's no wonder Utah has some of the best Halloween fun.

The trick-or-treating category was based on pedestrian safety, child population, walkability and Halloween weather. With 28.37% of Utah's population under age 18 according to Kuru Footwear's survey, it's clear that Utah enjoys kid-friendly festivities for the holiday.

Consumer Affairs dubbed Utahns the "scary movie fanatics," saying Google data shows that Utahns search up Halloween movies more than any other state. Not only do we love Halloween movies — especially three locally filmed Michael Myers saga "Halloween" movies — but we love Spirit Halloween stores as well, ranking with the second-most stores per capita in the nation.

Greg Shoop, a leader in the Utah group Rocky Mountain Haunters, sets up a big Halloween display every year for passersby to enjoy. "It's what I do. It's fun and it's a joyous thing," Shoop said.

Greg Shoop's Halloween decorations this year in Sandy. (Photo: Greg Shoop)

Rocky Mountain Haunters is a group that gets together in June every year to plan their Halloween decorations and teach each other how to make spooky props for their annual displays. The group has its own interactive map, with over 150 places to see around the state.

Considering Utah is also the top decorated state for Halloween, it's no wonder groups like the Rocky Mountain Haunters get such a great turnout every year.

Shoop said he is sure to have a teal pumpkin, a tradition indicating that children with food allergies will have safe treats.

While Utah was rated at the top for trick-or-treating because of its pedestrian safety, the Utah Highway Patrol urges both drivers and trick-or-treaters to be aware of surroundings and be alert at all times.