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NEW YORK (CNN/Money) -
Halloween revelers are giving Hollywood a nod this year, with Darth Vader and Batman expected to be some of the most popular costumes this year, according to retailers.
"Licensees are back again, whereas a year ago they weren't as strong," said Jalem Getz, President and CEO of the online retailer BuyCostumes.com, referring to the number of costumes based on big-screen films.
While Darth Vader and the Dark Knight are to be the top choice among boys, girls are expected to flock to the perennial favorite of a princess.
The Star Wars theme is expected to remain popular among adults, as well as characters such as Tinkerbell, a zombie or pirate, according to Party City Corp., the 500-store party goods and costume retailer.
The family pet is even getting in on the fun this year, according to Getz. Costume sales, he says, have increased by 120 percent over the past year at his business.
Both consumers and retailers are crazy about Halloween costumes, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF). A recent survey by the NRF shows that 53.3 percent of U.S. consumers will purchase a costume this year, forking over $31.88 on average for that Darth Vader outfit or that pirate ensemble.
Americans will spend $3.3 billion on costumes, candy, and merchandise, 5.4 percent more on Halloween this year, according to the trade organization.
Malinda Behrens, the vice president of brand development at Party City (up $0.07 to $16.43, Research), said that so far her company has managed to tap into the demand for costumes and decorations. The chain went so far as to even open 10 temporary stores during the Halloween season to attract more customers.
"It's highly competitive," said Behrens, describing the Halloween market. "But we're feeling very positive about the season."
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