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6 Texas-Inspired Halloween Costumes
“Howdy Halloween, folks!”
Contrary to what you might expect, the most memorable Halloween costumes aren’t necessarily the most elaborate. You don’t need flashing lights, sound effects, or hours of intricate face paint. To win the costume contest, you need a look that’s unexpected yet instantly recognizable.
These Texas-themed costume ideas hit that sweet spot. Bring some Lone Star energy — and a few knowing laughs — to Halloween with one of these looks.
Whataburger Cup
In 1961, Whataburger founder and recreational pilot Harmon Dobson painted his 24th restaurant in Odessa with orange and white stripes so it could be spotted from the air. Today, those distinctive stripes are everywhere, from cups and table tents to YETI tumblers and James Avery charms. This year, bring some of that fandom to Halloween. You’re guaranteed at least one “Whatacostume!”
Big Tex & Fletcher’s Corny Dog
Big Tex debuted at the State Fair of Texas in 1952, and he’s welcomed pretty much every fairgoer to Fair Park since. (In 2025, that was more than 2 million people.) Pay tribute to the 55-foot-tall “world’s tallest cowboy” in a cowboy hat, head-to-toe Dickies, and boots. Make it a couples costume with a partner — human or canine — dressed as a Fletcher’s Original Corny Dog.
Ms. Pearl the Giant Squirrel
Texas is nuts about pecans, our official state nut. In 2025, Texas growers produced 41.6 million pounds of them. But the biggest fan is indisputably Ms. Pearl, the 14-foot-tall squirrel greeting travelers outside Berdoll Pecan Candy & Gift Company near Bastrop. An estimated 30–100 visitors pose for a photo with her and her giant pecan each day. This Halloween, give your friends a chance to snap a selfie without the drive.
Bee Cave Bob, Armadillo Meteorologist
Allowing a Yankee groundhog to predict our weather didn’t sit well with Texas, so we hired a local. Bee Cave Bob is Texas’ weather-predicting answer to Punxsutawney Phil. Since 2010, Bee Cave Bob has traveled from his home in Katy to Bee Cave, a small town outside of Austin, to conduct his prediction on Feb. 2, aka Armadillo Day. He has predicted an early spring more than 80% of the time — fitting optimism from Texas’ official small state mammal.
Marfa Lights
Texas is rich with ghost stories and mysteries. One of the most enduring are accounts of lights dancing along the horizon southeast of Marfa. Some blame headlights or campfires; others, the paranormal. This Halloween, you can channel that spooky energy yourself. All you need is all-black clothing wrapped in battery-powered LED string lights. Carry a U.S. Highway 67 highway sign so everyone understands the reference.
Planning a costume for your four-legged Texan, too? Review these Halloween pet safety tips to keep the night fun and safe for your furry friends.
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