Despite Economic Woes, Halloween Spending Expected to Rise

* 64.5 percent of consumers surveyed said they plan to celebrate the holiday this year vs. 58.7 percent last year;

* total Halloween spending for 2008 is expected to reach $5.77 billion;

* respondents plan to spend an average of $24.17 on Halloween costumes (including costumes for adults, children and pets), $20.39 on candy, $18.25 on decorations and $3.73 on greeting cards;