From costume parties to haunted houses, students have many opportunities to get into the Halloween spirit this weekend.

Lynn Loyd, one of the owners of Ridiculous Rags, 2414 Lincoln Way, said the two most popular costume ideas for this year are probably dressing up ’70s style or as a favorite movie or TV character.

“Halloween had always been huge,” Loyd said. “People like dressing up and having fun; it is a good time.”

Loyd said the majority of the business for Halloween comes from local college and high school students, and people usually spend an average of $25-$30 for a rental.

Residence hall floor parties are one option for students who want to show off their outfits. Eric Williams, junior in psychology, said Baker House on 10th floor Storms Hall will be hosting a Halloween party Friday.

“Our party will consist of a costume contest and a floor dance with refreshments provided,” Williams said.

“We usually have a good turnout at our floor parties, so it should be a good time.” he said,

Local bars also give students a chance to show their wild sides. The Scene, 124 Welch Ave., is hosting a Halloween costume party this Saturday.

“We will be having a costume contest with the best cash prizes around, comparable drink specials, and it is all located in a nice, clean atmosphere — it should be a great time,” said Tony Shepard, general manager of The Scene.

Haunted houses are another option. Lambda Chi Alpha, 203 Ash Ave., will be hosting the Gorevile Manor Haunted House on Friday and Saturday from 7 p.m. to midnight.

Besides the haunted house, the Lambda Chi Alpha festivities include skits and other outdoor entertainment.

“The proceeds will go to benefit the Children’s Convalescent Home in Johnston,” said Adam Rasmussen, Gorevile co-chairman. “It is for the kids and will be a good time. I recommend it.”

The Ames Jaycees will be hosting their traditional haunted house, The Tower of Terror, at the Cyclone Truck Stop on Highway 30.

“The entire haunted house is a castle theme,” said Molly Reidenbaugh, Jaycees haunted house co-chairwoman. “There is an element of surprise with the haunted house — it is not what people expect.”

The Tower of Terror will be open on Friday and Saturday from 7 p.m. to midnight.

Haunted houses are not the only way students can get a scare. Movies such as “Halloween: H20,” “Urban Legends” and “The Bride of Chucky” are playing at local theaters to enhance the Halloween mood.

Students wanting to stay at home and scare the trick-or-treaters can still get into the Halloween spirit by renting a video.

Perry Moberg, employee of That’s Entertainment Video, 129 Lincoln Way, said he has noticed an increase in horror flick rentals in the last couple of weeks.

“People like to rent the classics like “Friday the 13th,” “The Exorcist,” “Poltergeist” and “Psycho,” Moberg said.