There is no escape anymore: Second Life turned black and orange, pumpkins have taken over the grid, and our inventories are preparing to double in size overnight. Yes, friends, the 2025 Halloween Shop & Hop returns this Friday, and it’s big, spooky, and gloriously chaotic. The Moles did their best, and it shows.

I had early access (which sounds fancy, but really means I spent several hours hopping between the haunted regions while trying not to accidentally buy myself the same outfit twice). And let me tell you: this year’s event is an absolute treat, emphasis on treat, though there are probably a few tricks scattered about. 

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💀 The Haunted Extravaganza

Eighteen regions. Three hundred and sixty creators. That’s not an event, that’s an endurance sport. Every region is draped in cobwebs, skeletons, pumpkins, cauldrons, scary teddy bears, and all sorts of decor that would make a gothic interior designer weep with joy.

Navigation is easy, but even if you get lost, you’ll probably bump into a gift box or two, and that’s really the spirit of the event, isn’t it?

🧙‍♀️ Gifts Galore (and No, You Can’t Sue Them)

Every participating store offers a free, non-group gift, which is amazing, especially if you’re on a budget or if your wallet is still recovering from the last event. Some gifts are Halloween-themed, others are not, so there’s something for everyone. I, for one, got an amazing free handbag by Schadenfreude that looks like an eyeball! How cool is that!!

And before you even think of complaining about a free gift, stop right there. Take a deep breath, count your blessings, and read my earlier public service announcement on the fine art of not complaining about gifts.

🛍️ The Discounts That Make Us Justify Everything

In addition to all those gifts, participating creators are offering 20% or more off their items. Which means you can tell yourself, “I’m actually saving money,” as you buy fifteen new outfits, three haunted mansions, and a pumpkin patch or two.

Honestly, it’s financial logic at its best. You’re practically making money, really.

🎃 Tips for the Brave (or the Easily Distracted)

• Go in stages; trying to do all 18 regions in one sitting may lead to spontaneous avatar combustion.
• Bring a friend! Someone needs to tell you when you’re buying the same pair of boots for the fourth time.
• And remember: no amount of gifts will fill the existential void, but they come close.

Everything You Need

🕷️ Official 2025 Halloween Shop & Hop Blog Post (with slurls to all stores)
🕷️ Destination Guide Page
🕷️ Shop & Hop Flickr Group

The event opens Friday, October 3rd, at 9 AM PT and runs through November 2nd. Which gives you just enough time to shop, redecorate your entire home in cobwebs, and wonder how you’ll ever unpack the rest.

Happy hopping! May your inventory survive, and your Linden balance rest in peace. 💀💸

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Tip:

Once you’re done hoarding gifts and bargains, why not grab a friend (or victim) and try one of Second Life’s haunted date nights? Perfect for testing who screams first, read my review here!