The average American household spent about $45 on Halloween candy, costumes and decorations in 2002, but that should increase this year, said James Lowry, who has been tracking Halloween spending for nearly four decades.

The first indication of strong Halloween sales was higher than anticipated back-to-school retail sales, he said.

"The economy began to pick up in July as consumers increased their spending," Lowry said. "That usually says sales in autumn will be pretty good as well. People are optimistic because all the signs are pointing to a bounce in our economy.

"Halloween has become more of a holiday for adults," he said. "If people have discretionary money, they are going to spend it on things like Halloween decorations, costumes and parties. Halloween is a fun holiday for adults because they can pretend to be someone or something else."

Adults' fascination with Halloween has helped transform the holiday into a much-needed sales boost for many retailers, Lowry said.

According to the National Retail Federation, consumers aged 18 to 34 spent about $67 in 2002 on Halloween related goods. Consumers with children spent $62. The Halloween season is projected to bring retailers roughly $6.9 billion in sales.

"Because Halloween falls on a Friday night, it will allow adults to go to holiday-themed parties because they don't have to work the next day," Lowry said. "Youngsters also will be out in large numbers because it's a weekend night. There's no worrying about getting up early for school."