When you plan to attend a Halloween party, first and foremost arrive in costume. The attire of the evening is dress up. If you’re going to enter the home, eat their food and drink their drink, show up in Halloween attire. Nothing says party pooper (or party crasher) louder than not following the theme of the evening. If you feel you are “too cool” to dress up or are uncomfortable dressing up, then don’t go.

When deciding on what to wear, consider a few things. First the space your costume can take up. If you are going to be in someone’s home, make sure your costume can get down a hallway (or through a door) without taking down pictures as you move around. Next make sure you can work your way into and out of a bathroom. You’ll need to do the sit test – meaning can you sit in a chair without knocking it over. And can you stand back up once you sit down. Finally see if it’s easy to shed or move around. Think costume malfunction ala Janet Jackson.

Before you make your final decision of what to be, check to see if this is an adult only party or kids and adults. And be sure to dress appropriately. There’s nothing worse than and exhibitionist showing up to a party where little Johnny and tiny Suzie are dressed as Dora and Diego and you have private parts exposed. Are you going to be someone’s date and don’t know the host? It’s OK to call and check just who will be there and what’s expected. And when you check, also ask what you can bring to the party.

Now that you’re all dressed up, you can arrive at the party. Upon entering make sure that you introduce yourself. Remember that you may not be recognizable. So be sure to introduce yourself to the host and the guests.

While you are introducing yourself, pass off the bottle of wine to the host or ask where you can place your appetizer. You did bring something, right? You don’t want to show up empty handed. This is a party after all and you are a guest.

After having a great time or even not so great, find the hosts before you leave and bid farewell. Thank them for opening their home to you. Thank them for including you on the guest list. And after you get home, send them a thank you. You’ll make a great impression and let them know that you appreciate the time it took for them to get their house in order for the party.