The Charming '80s Halloween Decor You Can Score At The Thrift Store

Almost everyone can think of a Halloween decoration that brings them back to childhood, from hanging skeletons to cardboard cutouts of witches. Those who were alive in the 1980s might remember a family of pumpkins that became wildly popular because of their hilariously creepy faces. We're talking about the Oh Lantern Family, of course! They were created by award-winning artist Todd Masters, a magician in the world of Hollywood special effects and makeup. He's well known for his monster-making abilities, so it's not surprising that he released the Oh Lanterns, a group of pumpkins with ghoulishly lovable looks.

If you want Halloween decor for your porch this year, you might be lucky enough to get your hands on some of these pumpkins at a thrift store. You'll definitely know the Oh Lantern Family when you see them. Each member is made of foam rubber, but with its own unique features that appear masterfully carved. They first arrived in 1987, and millions were sold over two seasons. To this day, the Oh Lantern Family still has fans who can't get enough of their quirkiness. For a dose of nostalgia, definitely search for them in thrift stores.

Not all of us are able to carve an epic Halloween pumpkin during the spooky season. But with the Oh Lantern Family, you don't have to possess any skills for a display that'll capture everyone's attention. All of the original eight family members have a name that starts with "J," and they were given their own personalities. It's no wonder they look like they rolled out of a monster movie, as Masters has worked on numerous horror projects, including "Tales from the Crypt" and the reboot of "Child's Play." 

The Oh Lanterns are vintage items to be on the lookout for when thrifting. While they originally cost $9.95, many of them go for three or four times more than that on eBay. But if you find them at thrift shops, you'll likely get a smoking deal, especially since not everyone is aware that they're actually Halloween gems! In addition to the eight originals named Joey, Jack, James, Jody, Johnny, Jock, Jesabell, and Jesse — keep your eyes peeled for all the babies, too. 

Decorating with the Oh Lantern Family will be tons of fun. After all, they make you giggle and are a bit frightening at the same time. Line them up on your front wall with lights, or make your own pumpkin patch inside for just you and your loved ones to enjoy. Keep them together as a family, or spread them around the house so every room has a classic touch.

You could also create a terrifying scene with the pumpkins and then incorporate other old-school '80s characters, such as Freddy Krueger or Pumpkinhead. And if you're really into Halloween, you could update it all season long for the neighbors to enjoy. Even if you find just one Oh Lantern, it's a decoration that's sure to stand out on the shelf. Hopefully, though, you'll be able to get the whole band back together.