Will wintry weather cramp Halloween?

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - It's a spooky forecast for Halloween weekend this year... but you'd never know it inside Spirit Halloween in Springfield.*

Last-minute Halloween shoppers formed lines all the way to the back of the store on Friday night. The snowy weekend forecast doesn't seem to be scaring people away from their Halloween plans.

"No. everyone is staying on track and they're just going to throw a couple coats on, that's what I've heard," said Spirit's assistant manager Robert Huyler. He told 22News the sudden onset of frigid weather hasn't slowed down costume sales.

Joey Hendler was shopping for a "hilarious" costume with some college buddies. "It's going to be a white Halloween. I think it adds a better element to it, I'm excited for it."

If you're going to head outside this weekend, whether it's for trick or treating or for parties, you'll need to make sure you're covered from head to toe. Skimpy costumes seem to be all the rage, but weather-appropriate coats are a must while traveling to and from your destination.

A word of advice to Halloween party-goers: keep in mind that while alcohol may provide a short-lived initial flush of "warmth," it actually lowers your core body temperature, making you more vulnerable to hypothermia. Drink in moderation, and of course, make sure you have a designated driver.

Don't get stuck in the cold without a ride home. Plan in advance to ensure taxis, buses, and trains are still in service at the hour you plan to leave.

Stay with 22News on air, on line and on the go all weekend for our 22News Storm Team coverage.

*Spirit Halloween Springfield donates 100% of its profits to local Shriners hospitals.