HARRISONBURG, VA (Rocktown Now) — In the Shenandoah Valley, Halloween isn’t just a one-day celebration—it’s a season. Local families often start decorating weeks ahead of October 31, transforming front porches and living rooms into festive, spooky scenes.

For those who prefer a hands-on approach to holiday decorating, fall is the perfect time to gather supplies, break out the glue guns and make something special. Whether you’re decorating a home or prepping a trunk-or-treat station for a local fall festival, these easy DIY Halloween crafts can turn your space into a local showstopper.

1. No-Carve 3D Pumpkins

Pumpkin carving can be messy and time-consuming. Instead, create a striking effect with hot glue and craft paint. Pick up a medium-sized pumpkin from a Rockingham County farmers’ market. Use a hot glue gun to draw designs—think jack-o’-lantern faces, swirls, or even spiderwebs—right on the surface. Once dry, paint over the entire pumpkin with acrylic paint. The raised patterns will pop through for a modern, mess-free twist on a fall favorite.

2. Spooktacular Wreath

Adorn the front door with something creative. It can be utterly frightening or something more festive. Start with a premade spring greenery wreath or a wreath frame that you cover with your own greenery. Purchase a round, unfinished wooden sign panel, and paint with black chalkboard paint. Add your own message with chalk or chalk paint. “Keep Away” or “Enter at Your Own Risk” are great Halloween phrases to consider. Attach the sign in the middle of the wreath. You also can add some embellishments to the wreath, including black moss and floral stems and leaves. A glittery black and green ribbon or bow is the finishing touch before hanging.

3. Boo Boxes for Trick-or-Treat Surprises

Kids love surprises, and a personalized “boo treasure box” is a great alternative to standard treat bags. Use a small unfinished wooden box—available at Hobby Lobby or Michaels—and paint it in Halloween hues. Add stickers or hand-painted icons like bats, ghosts or pumpkins. Fill the box with candy or small toys and set it out during local Halloween events or neighborhood gatherings.

4. Ghoulish Gnomes

Gnomes have become a year-round decorating trend. This Halloween, make your own spooky gnome with just a few simple materials. Use a 9-inch foam cone as the base. Wrap the lower half with a solid-colored sock, secure with glue, and top it off with a faux fur beard. A wooden bead makes a perfect nose, while a crew sock decorated in Halloween colors serves as the hat. Add tiny felt bats, spiders or mini pumpkins for extra flair.

Whether you’re crafting with kids, prepping for a fall festival, or just looking to add a personal touch to your Halloween décor, these DIY projects are easy, affordable, and fun for the whole family. With plenty of local shops and craft stores around the Valley, it’s never been easier to bring your Halloween vision to life—one glue stick at a time.