Buying costumes for the family can get costly, especially if you have a lot of children.  Are you a  parent who doesn't have the time to make costumes from scratch or shop for bargains, yet you don't want to spend a fortune this Halloween?

 Costume exchange

 The City of Antioch's Dept of Environment - Solid Waste & Recycling is having a public costume exchange Wednesday at Prewett Park from 6:30 to 8 pm.  Exchange costumes and accessories for tickets, then use them to buy replacement "recycled" costumes.  MAP 

 Contact Julie Haas-wajdowicz at 925-779-7097 or the Environmental resource line at 925-779-6137 for more information.

 Craigslist

 Do a search on Craigslist and you can find gently used costumes for sale, some at very good prices.  A seller in Walnut Creek has twin toddler-sized Tiggers for $8.  Another in San Lorenzo is offering toddler and preschool costumes for $5 to $8.  A seller in San Leandro has infant and toddler costumes for $7.  You can even pick up infant and toddler costumes for $3 from a seller in Berkeley. 

Thrift stores

The Hall Closet thrift store has racks of new costumes in every size, accessories and Halloween decorations at 25% of the original price, or less.  Prices are "unbelievably low."  Located at 202 Glacier Drive in Martinez, behind Juvenile Hall, and is open 10 to 2 on Mondays and Thursdays.  (Only open Mondays and Thursdays.)  (925) 228-0230  Proceeds benefit underprivileged youth:

Our money raised goes directly to the kids that need a hand with Jr. College tuition and books plus many other spots where young adults need a hand. Imagine growing up in today's world without the help and support of parents. We give baby clothes clothes and supplies to Probation and child rescue.

 99 cent and dollar stores

If you've never been inside, you might be surprised what you can find in your local 99 cent and dollar stores.  From candies, accessories and Halloween decorations, to full costumes, these stores are definitely worth a visit.  

 For more info: