Costume businesses in Canada are noticing a shift away from dressing up as Donald Trump for Halloween in 2025 compared to previous years. The owner of Theatre Garage in Edmonton, Christy Greenwood, mentioned that the demand for Trump costumes has significantly declined, attributing this change to the current political climate. In the past, there was a surge in interest for Trump-inspired costumes, including wigs and outfits mimicking his distinctive appearance. However, as Trump’s presidency progressed and his controversial actions drew criticism, enthusiasm for portraying him in costume waned.
The decline in popularity of Trump costumes is also evident in Hamilton, where the city’s steel industry has been affected by the Trump administration’s tariffs. Catriona Cameron from Theatrix, a costume rental shop in Hamilton, noted a stark decrease in inquiries for Trump wigs. Conversely, there has been an increase in customers opting for alternative costumes like Mounties, reflecting a shift in Halloween costume preferences.
Customers at Theatre Garage in Edmonton shared their thoughts on the diminishing appeal of Trump costumes. Some expressed that the novelty has worn off, while others viewed Trump as a comedic figure, making impersonating him for Halloween still amusing. Despite differing opinions, the consensus seems to be that the trend of dressing up as political figures like Trump has lost its appeal in the current climate.
Overall, there is a noticeable trend away from U.S. celebrity costumes in Canada this Halloween season, with classic choices like clowns and vampires gaining more popularity. Greenwood highlighted that customers are also showing interest in the origin of products, emphasizing a preference for supporting Canadian-made items. This shift in costume choices reflects a desire for light-hearted and traditional Halloween themes, away from the divisive political undertones of recent years.