You know the spookiest time of year is getting close when Spirit Halloween stores begin popping up for a few weeks every fall.

Spirit, which calls itself the world's number one costume store, has opened around 25 locations across the Chicago area. The chain might be known for Halloween, but this year, it's expanding offerings around another holiday season: Christmastime.

With a total of 30 locations in 13 states including Illinois and Indiana, "Spirit Christmas" plans to offer a "unique shopping experience" featuring décor, stocking stuffers, apparel and much more, according to its website.

The popular Halloween retailer ventured into the Christmas business for the first time last year, with only 10 locations across the country, none of which were in the Chicago area.

That's not the

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