One in Five Americans to Order Restaurant Takeout or Delivery on Halloween, According to National Restaurant Association Research

One in Five Americans to Order Restaurant Takeout or Delivery on Halloween, According to National Restaurant Association Research

(Washington, D.C.) Twenty percent of Americans say they plan to order takeout or delivery from a restaurant while trick-or-treaters come around this Halloween, according to new research by the National Restaurant Association (www.restaurant.org). Among younger adults (age 18-34) and families with children, that figure rises to 33 percent and 28 percent, respectively.

In addition, the Association’s research shows that 16 percent of adults will go out to a restaurant or bar to celebrate Halloween during the weekend or on October 31. At one-quarter, younger adults (age 18-34) are more likely to do so than older adults.

“While not a traditional holiday for dining out, Halloween is clearly an occasion where restaurants play a major role in celebrations, according to our new research,” said Hudson Riehle, senior vice president of the Research and Knowledge Group for the National Restaurant Association. “One-fifth of consumers say they plan to use restaurant takeout or delivery on October 31, signaling to restaurant operators that Halloween specials and promotions around off-premise options might be a good idea.”

“In addition, Halloween falls on a Monday this year – the least popular day of the week to dine out – which may give restaurants a welcome sales boost in this continued challenging economic environment,” Riehle added.

When asked about the most important factor in selecting a restaurant or bar for Halloween celebrations, happy hours and Halloween costumes are the top choices among those planning to go out:

• 32% said they will seek out an establishment with happy hour or other pricing specials
• 22% will select a restaurant that encourages Halloween costumes or competitions
• 16 % prefer locations with activities for families and children
• 15% will choose a restaurant or bar located near activities, such as Halloween parties, parades or haunted houses
• 7% say a location with Halloween-themed food and drink items and decorations is their top choice

The National Restaurant Association surveyed 1,116 American adults on October 20-23 about their plans around Halloween 2011