Scare tactics: Modern Halloween yard decorations go bigger and bolder

Groovy ghosts and disco spiders were a popular selection for home decor this season.

The retro and nontraditional style reflects the ever-evolving nature of holiday decorations.

Taking a step outside — and back in time — today we can see homes decked out in more spooky and gory, and more commercial, ways.

Carving pumpkins has been a Halloween tradition since the 1800s, initially as a way to keep away evil spirits. While the traditional Jack-O-Lantern remains popular, carvers also enjoy getting creative with their designs, chiseling pictures and characters into their gourds.

Older generations might remember sheet ghosts, cardboard cut-outs, and classic scarecrows adorning their yards. Today’s trick-or-treaters are likely to stumble upon some larger-scale inflatables and animatronics.

Yet, no matter the generation, homeowners have always had a creepily creative touch.

A Toledo home in 1989 set out a bloodied head, witch, and devil to spook, or intrigue, passersby. And a 2024 home staged a mastermind skeleton brewing up another set of bones.

“We see more inflatables and electric power-type things as opposed to your more creative, vintage, homemade things,’’ said Shelly Varelli, organizer of the Old West End Halloween House Decorating Contest.

She said this year’s homes are decked out with unique and “precarious” inflatables and mechanical props, as well as theatrical lighting. People have also entered elaborate backyard setups, decorating outdoor bars and hot tubs to highlight the gathering spaces that are central to the Old West End culture.

“What better way to build community than with a bunch of eclectic individuals to highlight the historic homes that we have here?” said Varelli, chairman of the neighborhood’s social circle.

The public is invited to vote on Facebook for their favorite Old West End outdoor decorations. Go to bit.ly/48j2Dos .

As the evenings get darker, yards will continue to light up in the coming months as even more homes will soon be decorated in Christmas lights and props for the Old West End’s next friendly contest.