New York erupted in spooky cheers as the TODAY show’s anchors unveiled their jaw-dropping costumes for the 2025 Halloween Extravaganza on the Plaza. From coast-to-coast icons to behind-the-scenes magic, this year’s road trip theme brought the house down. Stick around for live updates, surprises, and why this tradition keeps fans hooked year after year.
Road Trip Theme Takes Over the Plaza
The TODAY anchors kicked off Halloween 2025 with a bang, dressing as beloved American icons in a fun road trip twist. Savannah Guthrie channeled Beyonce’s fierce energy, complete with a sparkling outfit that lit up the stage. Craig Melvin stepped into Prince’s purple world, strumming a guitar like the legend himself.
Al Roker transformed into the iconic Rocky Balboa, flexing in boxing gloves and ready for a Philly showdown. This theme celebrated spots across the U.S., from Hollywood stars to East Coast heroes. Fans on the Plaza cheered wildly as each reveal happened live.
The event started at 7 a.m. ET on October 31, 2025, drawing crowds despite the chilly fall air. Sheinelle Jones wowed as a classic figure from New Orleans jazz scenes, while Carson Daly embodied a laid-back California surfer vibe.
Dylan Dreyer and Willie Geist joined in, with Dreyer as a Grand Canyon explorer and Geist as a Nashville country star. The costumes highlighted America’s diverse culture, making the show a hit for families watching at home.
Behind-the-Scenes Magic and Prep Chaos
Getting ready for the TODAY Halloween Extravaganza 2025 was no small feat. Teams of makeup artists and costume designers worked overnight to perfect every detail. Wigs flew, glitter sparkled, and laughs echoed through 30 Rockefeller Plaza.
One standout moment came when Jenna Bush Hager revealed her look as a Texas rodeo queen, sharing how the outfit took hours to assemble. Peter Alexander and Laura Jarrett added to the fun, dressing as figures from Chicago’s deep-dish pizza world and Boston’s historic streets.
The prep included fittings that started weeks ago, ensuring everything fit the road trip narrative. Insiders say the anchors practiced their reveals to nail the timing, turning potential mishaps into hilarious highlights.
This year’s extravaganza built on a tradition dating back to 1994, when the show first turned the Plaza into a Halloween hotspot. Viewers love the mix of nostalgia and fresh ideas.
Spooky Surprises and Fan Favorites
Beyond costumes, the 2025 event packed in treats like live performances and Halloween tips. A band played eerie tunes, and experts shared easy DIY costume ideas for last-minute fun.
Crowds got free goodies, from candy to TODAY swag, keeping the energy high. Kids in the audience dressed up too, joining anchors for photo ops.
Here are some quick highlights from the Plaza:
- Live music sets that had everyone dancing.
- Surprise guest appearances from past TODAY stars.
- Tips on safe trick-or-treating amid busy city streets.
The show also featured segments on healthy Halloween snacks, blending fun with practical advice. One poll from NBC, conducted in October 2025, showed 68% of viewers tune in just for the costumes, up from 55% last year.
Looking Back at a Beloved Tradition
The TODAY Halloween Extravaganza has grown from a simple segment into a must-watch event. Since 1994, it has featured over 200 costume reveals, drawing millions of viewers each year.
Data from Nielsen ratings in 2024 showed the special boosted morning show viewership by 15%. This year, with the road trip theme, experts predict even higher numbers.
Anchors often share personal stories, like how the event brings back childhood memories. It connects with audiences by mixing celebrity flair with everyday Halloween joy.
The Plaza setup included giant screens for better views, ensuring no one missed a moment. As the day unfolded, social media buzzed with fan reactions, proving its lasting appeal.
As the confetti settled on the Plaza and the anchors waved goodbye in their iconic outfits, the 2025 TODAY Halloween Extravaganza reminded us why this event captures hearts every year. It blends creativity, laughter, and a touch of spooky magic, turning an ordinary morning into something unforgettable. What did you think of the road trip theme and those standout costumes? Share your thoughts in the comments and spread the word with friends on social media. With #TODAYHalloween trending big on X right now, tag your posts and let’s keep the conversation going!
