20+ Halloween Costume Ideas for Dads: Manly, Funny, & Nostalgic
by
Eric Sharp
Modified last on
Feb 8, 2025
Halloween isn’t just for kids! Relive childhood nostalgia, flex dad-strength, or get laughs with these legendary costumes. 20+ ideas for Dads with handy links to buy the specific pieces needed for assembling each costume!
Topic
Table of Contents
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- Old School Strongman
- Ted Lasso
- Maverick (from Top Gun 1986)
- Energizer Bunny
- Rocky Balboa
- Ivan Drago
- Hulk Hogan
- Ultimate Warrior
- Macho Man Randy Savage
- Richard Simmons
- Borat
- He-Man
- Nikki Sixx (from Motley Crue)
- Napoleon Dynamite
- Uncle Rico
- Indiana Jones
- Zorro
- Steve Urkel
- Marty McFly
- Roman Soldier/Gladiator
- Forrest Gump
- [Honorable Mention]
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Dad, it’s time to level up your Halloween game!
Whether you’re looking to relive your childhood heroes or just want a fun and nostalgic costume, this Dad-specific costume guide has got you covered.
From Indiana Jones to Hulk Hogan, Steve Urkel, or even Borat, these creative picks bring personality and fun to your Halloween look.
Get ready to steal the show at Halloween parties, make the kids laugh, and have an absolute blast. Because let’s be honest — cool dads don’t just hand out candy; they make Halloween legendary!
Halloween Costume Ideas for Dads
If you missed the table of contents above, here’s the full listing below of Halloween costume ideas for Dad. Click to jump quickly to whatever piques your interest!
- Old School Strongman
- Ted Lasso
- Maverick (from Top Gun 1986)
- Energizer Bunny
- Rocky Balboa
- Ivan Drago
- Hulk Hogan
- Ultimate Warrior
- Macho Man Randy Savage
- Richard Simmons
- Borat
- He-Man
- Nikki Sixx (from Motley Crue)
- Napoleon Dynamite
- Uncle Rico
- Indiana Jones
- Zorro
- Steve Urkel
- Marty McFly
- Roman Soldier/Gladiator
- Forrest Gump
- [Honorable Mention]
Tips for Choosing the Right Dad Halloween Costume
Some things to keep in mind when selecting your costume.
- Keep It Comfortable. You’ll be chasing kids, handing out candy, or partying — so pick something breathable and easy to move in.
- Go for Nostalgia. Choose a costume that brings back childhood memories — think 80s action heroes, classic wrestlers, or pop culture icons.
- Match the Occasion. Family-friendly party? Go for Ted Lasso, Energizer Bunny, Forrest Gump, etc. Adults-only event? Maybe break out Borat with the mankini!
- How much time do you have? Some costumes need full face paint (Ultimate Warrior), while others are as simple as a red tracksuit and wig (Richard Simmons). Choose your adventure wisely.
- Get Creative. The best costumes don’t have to be expensive. DIY pieces plus a few key Amazon finds can make your look legendary.
Now, pick your costume and make this Halloween one for the books!
1. Old-School Strongman (from the Circus Days!)
Why It’s Awesome: This classic circus act is perfect for dads who like to show off their strength. Rock a striped singlet, fake handlebar mustache, and carry a giant dumbbell.
How to Get Into Character: Strut around flexing and saying, “Step right up and witness unparalleled strength!” in a booming voice.
Things to Buy
- Striped singlet
- Fake handlebar mustache
- Inflatable dumbbells or kettlebells (make the weight amount dramatic!)
2. Ted Lasso
Why It’s Awesome: If your dad-energy includes endless optimism, mustache-twirling wisdom, and a love for snacks, this is your guy.
How to Get Into Character: Call everyone “buddy,” hand out biscuits, and randomly say, “Believe!” at dramatic moments.
Things to Buy
- Blue AFC Richmond jacket
- Whistle
- Fake mustache
- Sunglasses
- White Visor Hat
3. Maverick from Top Gun (1986 version)
Why It’s Awesome: Who doesn’t want to wear aviators and a bomber jacket while exuding confidence? Bonus points if you own a motorcycle.
How to Get Into Character: Keep cool, call everyone “Goose,” and whisper, “I feel the need… the need for speed.”
Things to Buy
- Aviator sunglasses
- Bomber jacket
- White t-shirt
- Dog tags
4. The Energizer Bunny
Why It’s Awesome: Because dads never stop—whether it’s fixing things, coaching, or just making dad jokes.
How to Get Into Character: Randomly start “drumming” on things and keep walking away mid-conversation.
Things to Buy
- Pink bunny costume
- Drum & drumsticks
- Sunglasses
5. Rocky Balboa
Why It’s Awesome: Rocky is peak 80s toughness.
How to Get Into Character: Jog in place, randomly shadowbox, and respond to everything with “Adrian!”
Things to Buy
- Satin USA Flag shorts/robe (or Black/Gold)
- Boxing gloves
- Fedora
- Dark Hair wig
6. Ivan Drago
Why It’s Awesome: Drago may be the most celebrated villain in any sports movie. Why? Because he was badass (even though Rocky knocked him out).
How to Get Into Character: Softly say “I must break you” to everyone you meet.
Things to Buy
- Satin shorts/robe
- Boxing gloves
- Blond spiky wig
7. Hulk Hogan
Why It’s Awesome: If you’ve ever wanted an excuse to rip off a tank top in dramatic fashion, this is it.
How to Get Into Character: Cup your hand to your ear before speaking and call everyone “brother.”
Things to Buy
- Yellow shirt & leggings
- Hulkamania Bandana
- Red bandana & sunglasses
- Fake wig, mustache
- Championship Belt (optional)
8. Ultimate Warrior
I know for a fact Dads will love this costume because I WAS the Ultimate Warrior. I made a homemade Ultimate Warrior costume a few Halloween’s ago and it was epic.
Why It’s Awesome: This high-energy costume is inspired by the one and only Ultimate Warrior. With neon tassels, wild face paint, and that signature intensity, this costume is perfect for any dad who loves old-school wrestling.
How to Get Into Character: Breath heavy, act very odd, and let everyone know that you’re coming after Hulk Hogan at SummerSlam.
Things to Buy
Get my full list in the above link, but here’s a sample:
- Neon wrestling tights
- Arm tassels & knee pads
- Face paint
- Muscle shirt (optional)
- Wig
- Championship Belt (optional)
9. Macho Man Randy Savage
Why It’s Awesome: Macho Man was pure wrestling charisma with wild outfits and even wilder catchphrases.
How to Get Into Character: Speak entirely in gravelly wrestling promos and randomly yell, “Ohhhhhh yeahhhh!”
Things to Buy
- Cowboy hat & sunglasses
- Sequin jacket & tights
- Iconic Sunglasses
- Purple Old School shirt
- Championship Belt (optional)
10. Richard Simmons
Why It’s Awesome: The king of 80s fitness makes for a hilarious and energetic costume.
How to Get Into Character: Randomly break into high-energy workout moves mid-conversation.
Things to Buy
- Crazy curly wig
- Sweatband & wristbands
- Striped tank top
- Short shorts
11. Borat
Why It’s Awesome: This one’s all about the voice and awkward charm.
How to Get Into Character: Walk around in an awkward stance, giving enthusiastic thumbs-ups, and saying “My wife!”
Things to Buy
- Gray suit
- Fake mustache, wig
- High socks & dress shoes
- Green Mankini (if you so dare!)
12. He-Man
Why It’s Awesome: Every 80s kid wanted to be He-Man. Now’s your chance.
How to Get Into Character: Hold up your plastic sword and yell, “By the power of Grayskull!” before doing anything.
Things to Buy
- Blonde wig
- Chest armor & loincloth
- Fantasy Sword (“I HAVE THE POWER!”)
13. Nikki Sixx (from Motley Crue)
This was another homemade costume I attempted, and it came out pretty well! Check out my homemade Nikki Sixx Motley Crue costume!
Why It’s Awesome: Dads who love ’80s rock and still feel like they have some edge will love dressing up as Nikki Sixx from Mötley Crüe.
How to Get Into Character: Walk around like you own the place, make the rock hand gesture in every picture, and drop “Dude, rock and roll never dies” in random conversations.
Things to Buy
Get my full list in the above link, but here’s a sample:
- Black leather pants & vest
- Wig
- Black eyeliner, red lipstick
- Studded wristbands & accessories
14. Napoleon Dynamite
Why It’s Awesome: Curly wig, “Vote for Pedro” shirt, and moon boots = instant hilarity.
How to Get Into Character: Complain about everything and break out into awkward dance moves.
Things to Buy
- “Vote for Pedro” t-shirt
- Curly wig & glasses
- Moon boots
15. Uncle Rico
Why It’s Awesome: Go all in and convince your wife (or best friend) to “throw a football over them mountains” and pair up Napoleon Dynamite with Uncle Rico!
How to Get Into Character: Constantly lean against things with your arms crossed or do dramatic stretches like you’re warming up for the big game. Bring up how you “could’ve gone pro” if Coach had just put you in.
Things to Buy
- Wig
- Fake (thin) mustache
- Powder Blue Uncle Rico shirt
- Jean Vest
- Football
16. Indiana Jones
Why It’s Awesome: The hat. The whip. The rugged dad charm. Indy is a legend.
How to Get Into Character: Dramatically sigh and say, “Snakes… why did it have to be snakes?”
Things to Buy
- Brown fedora
- Whip
- Brown leather jacket
- Satchel with cross-chest strap
- Grail Diary Journal
17. Zorro
Why It’s Awesome: The original masked hero, perfect for dads who love swashbuckling action.
How to Get Into Character: Flourish your (toy) sword and make a dramatic “Z” in the air before speaking.
Things to Buy
- Black cape
- Black mask & hat
- Toy rapier sword
18. Steve Urkel
Why It’s Awesome: Suspenders, oversized glasses, and that iconic voice make this a hilarious throwback.
How to Get Into Character: Snort when you laugh and ask, “Did I do that?”
Things to Buy
- Oversized glasses
- Eyeglass chain
- Bow tie & suspenders
- Brown/Black loafers or dress shoes (most of the time Urkel wore high-top sneakers!)
- Wrangler jeans (high-wasted!)
19. Marty McFly
Why It’s Awesome: Denim jacket, red puffer vest, and time-traveling dad energy.
How to Get Into Character: Check your watch, act super paranoid about altering history, and say, “We gotta go back!”
Things to Buy
- Red puffer vest
- Denim jacket
- Hoverboard
- Almanac
- Holographic hat
- High-top future sneakers
20. Roman Soldier/Gladiator
Why It’s Awesome: Because togas are comfy and swords are fun.
How to Get Into Character: Walk dramatically and say, “For Rome!” before doing literally anything.
Things to Buy
- Helmet
- Roman chest plate & cape
- Plastic sword & shield
- Gladiator sandals
21. Forrest Gump (running!)
Why It’s Awesome: Simple yet iconic, Forrest is wholesome dad energy at its finest.
How to Get Into Character: Answer everything with, “Mama always said…” and occasionally start running for no reason.
Things to Buy
- Bubba Gump hat
- Long Beard & Hair wig
- Short red shorts
- Yellow shirt with green stripes
- Red & Blue striped socks
- White Running shoes
Honorable Mention
See nothing you like? (Which is hard for me to believe!) Here are more costume ideas for Dads that are masculine, nostalgic, humorous, or all of the above.
- Ricky Bobby (“If you ain’t first, you’re last!”)
- Elvis
- MC Hammer
- Lumberjack
- Mr. T
- Wolverine
- Reno 911 Office Dangle
- Ace Ventura
- Happy Gilmore
Dad’s Final Thoughts
Fun fact: Studies show that Dads who dress up and engage in playful activities with their kids (especially rough & tumble play) help foster stronger emotional bonds and boost their children’s creativity.
So technically, dressing up as Hulk Hogan isn’t just fun — it’s scientifically good parenting. 🙂
Dads, this is your time to shine — or at least make your kids shake their heads in secondhand embarrassment. Whether you’re suiting up as a wrestling legend, a rockstar, or a throwback movie hero, Halloween is your excuse to go all in.
You got this, Dad!
Can you win at Dadhood AND everywhere else in life? I'm just crazy enough to believe we can. With the right knowledge, hacks, habits, and motivation — we can crush it ALL!
About Eric
Eric Sharp is the founder of Healthy Dad Hacks. He married the love of his life (Sarah) and proud Dad of a blended family (Hazel, Roman, & Dean). When not thinking about being a better Dad, he enjoys; CrossFit, entrepreneurship, eating carnivore, collecting Michael Jordan sports cards, music, and fancy sneakers.
[Picture: Turkey Trot 2021]
