Canadian Costume Shops Report Decline in Trump Halloween Costumes

Dressing up as former U.S. President Donald Trump for Halloween is losing its appeal in Canada, according to local costume rental businesses. In 2025, many shops report a significant drop in demand for Trump-related costumes, reflecting changing attitudes towards the controversial figure.

Christy Greenwood, owner of Theatre Garage in Edmonton, noted that interest in Trump costumes has waned since the height of his popularity in 2016. “Certainly I haven’t set up somebody dressing up like Trump in a very long time,” she remarked. She highlighted that during Trump’s candidacy, there was a surge in requests for blond wigs and makeup to mimic his distinct appearance. However, as political sentiments shifted, so did the humor associated with such costumes.

The backlash against Trump has intensified, particularly after he suggested that Canada should consider becoming a U.S. state. This sentiment has resonated especially in Hamilton, where the steel industry has been adversely affected by the tariffs imposed during his administration. Catriona Cameron, assistant manager at Theatrix in Hamilton, stated that her shop has seen no inquiries for Trump wigs this year, a stark contrast to previous Halloweens.

In conversations with customers at Theatre Garage, many expressed a reluctance to dress as Trump. Niamh Dower commented, “It’s a little played out right now,” emphasizing her lack of interest in political costumes. While some shoppers, like Stephanie Labute, find humor in the idea of a Trump costume, she acknowledged that many Canadians view the former president as “kind of a joke right now.”

In terms of cultural shifts, Greenwood indicated that interest in all U.S. celebrity costumes has declined this Halloween season. Classic characters such as those from the rock band Kiss and pop star Katy Perry are also less popular, despite Perry’s recent connections to former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. There are costumes available for more traditional themes, including clowns and vampires, but these choices are often linked to protests rather than festive celebrations.

As consumers increasingly prioritize supporting local industries, there has been a noticeable shift towards Canadian-themed costumes. Greenwood mentioned a rise in requests for costumes such as Mounties and even Captain Canada, with shoppers actively seeking to avoid symbols associated with the United States. “Canadians are really going out of their way to support Canadian industry as much as possible,” she noted.

Overall, the Halloween landscape in 2025 reflects a desire for escapism from political rhetoric. Greenwood concluded, “I think this Halloween is a vacation from all the rhetoric and stuff.” This report by The Canadian Press was initially published on October 25, 2025, highlighting a significant cultural shift in costume choices within Canada.