Macabre Holiday Gift Guide 2024

Even a dark soul like me has an appreciation for the holidays. I compare myself to Jack Skellington from The Nightmare Before Christmas. While Halloween Town is his domain, he can’t help but be fascinated by Christmas Town with all its jingles and bells. Plus, Xmas is celebrated when nights are the longest. It’s a vampire’s ideal time of year!

At Vamp Jenn’s Corner, it’s an annual tradition to come out with my Macabre Holiday Gift Guide. It comes in handy when you’re on the prowl for the spooky individual on your shopping list. I decided to change the format a bit this year. Instead of general categories with retailers, I’m listing specific items and including links so you can check out more of what they have. It means a lot to me to support independent creators and entrepreneurs, so the majority of items here will be from small businesses. Happy shopping!

Note: This blog post contains no affiliate links. I’m just linking to websites for your convenience and reference.

1. Gothic Life: The Essential Guide to Macabre Style by Aurelio Voltaire

The title says it all! Aurelio Voltaire has been a prominent figure in the goth scene for decades. Musically, he’s carved a place for himself in the dark cabaret genre. However, he showed his darkly domestic side when he launched his YouTube series Gothic Homemaking a few years back. If you haven’t checked it out, I highly recommend it. It’s garnered him plenty of recognition, including a feature in New York Times and this book, Gothic Life: The Essential Guide to Macabre Style ($24.99). Chapters discuss holiday-themed décor, dark décor basics, tips for Halloween décor shopping and more.

2. “Left Hand” & “Possession” Art Prints by La Dama Luna

I’ve been following La Dama Luna on TikTok for quite some time and am taken with her dark artistic creations. I recently attended a market she was vending at and bought a couple of art prints from her. I treated myself to “Left Hand” ($20) and “Possession” ($20). I was drawn to the occult vibes of both. These and her other artwork would be great additions to any art collector’s archive.

3. Release the Bats Chain Belt by Mode Brutale

I have a few items from Mode Brutale and the quality is superb. Jody Krevens is the woman behind this shop specializing in custom fashion pieces that exude an industrial, edgy style. The husband gifted me the Release the Bats Chain Belt ($90) last holiday season and I was ecstatic because I had my eye on it for a while. The bat totally gives off trad goth rock and vampiric vibes. The belt consists of a durable chain and is made to order, so you get a size that perfectly fits the person you’re shopping for. Many of the products are versatile and the belt can also be worn as a necklace. The sizing and craftsmanship are excellent, and I get so many compliments when I wear this piece.

4. The “Dark Labyrinth” Tea Blend by Petals & Poison

Enjoying a cup of hot tea on a chilly winter’s evening is serene. Petals & Poison has a delectable selection of Victorian-inspired herbal teas. I love the fresh aroma and flavors of their blends, and their products are great for tea drinkers. The “Dark Labyrinth” Tea Blend ($13) is an Earl Grey black tea with a robust taste. And the gothic packaging makes these teas all the more enticing.

5. Horror Trivia Card Game

Do you know someone who claims to be a horror buff? Then allow them to test their prowess with the Horror Trivia Card Game ($10.99). The game can be played as single players or in teams. It covers all the bases when it comes to the genre, including books, TV shows and film. There are questions about classic and modern horror, iconic monsters, haunted locations and so much more. The game has received positive feedback with a 4.6 star rating out of 1,830+ reviews on Amazon. Chances are high that you’ll have a screamin’ good time!

6. All Hallows’ Eve Candle by Purgatory Candle Co.

When you’re shopping for someone spooky, every day is Halloween. That’s what makes the All Hallows’ Eve Candle ($30) such an awesome gift. I’ve purchased products from Purgatory Candle Co. when they’ve vended at Midsummer Scream. The alluring scents do an amazing job at filling a room without being too overpowering. This item’s fragrance notes include apple cider and caramel, making your home smell like fall. Another thing I adore about this brand is that their candles come with a special treat—a creepy decoration. This one features a cute black cat popping out of a pumpkin. Trick or Treat!

7. Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

Mexican Gothic ($4.99-$29.99) was released in 2020 and combines elements of horror, magical realism and fantasy. I have the Kindle version, and my sister bought me the hardcover a few years ago. I loved the story. It takes place in Mexico at an estate called High Place that’s occupied by an English family. The main character, Noemí, is called there by her cousin who married into the family. No sooner than she arrives, strange occurrences transpire. The novel gave me Victorian gothic vibes a la the Brontë sisters. Definitely a good holiday present for the bookworm in your life.

8. The Boulet Brothers Halloween House Party CD

The Boulet Brothers are renowned for their hit drag TV competition series Dragula. They’ve also ventured into the world of music. This past spooky season, they released a new EP titled Halloween House Party ($10). While it’s available to stream on various platforms, an ardent fan will appreciate a collector’s item like this CD. The tracks have an old school Halloween sound and keep the October 31st spirit alive year-round. There is only a limited number of copies made, so grab one while they’re still available.

9. Grounding & Protection Spell Kit by Sui Generis Magicka

Sui Generis Magicka was established by occult practitioner Lauren and offers products made for devotees of the Left Hand Path. I’ve had the opportunity to meet Lauren at events and participate in one of her Dark Ambient Sound Baths. She is such a kind and genuine soul, and items from her shop truly possess a potent energy. Whether your loved one is a beginner or adept in their craft, the Grounding & Protection Spell Kit ($13) would be a wonderful addition to their magic tool cabinet. It’s meant to prepare you before beginning any magical work. It also comes with helpful ritual instructions.

10. Ghost of Creepmas Cardigan by Backstitch Bruja

Backstitch Bruja is a queer and Latinx-owned shop started by Yvette. The brand keeps it spooky with its merchandise, selling all sorts of fun accessories and apparel. The Ghost of Creepmas Cardigan ($100) is made for those who prefer to keep the holidays creepy. The design features a mix of ghosts, candy canes and snowflakes, and the style is unisex. If you live in Southern California, then don’t miss the opportunity to stop into the boutique in San Dimas to peruse items in the flesh.

11. Spider Web Coffin Shelf by Black Velvet Mourning

I had not heard of this Etsy shop before researching for my holiday guide. Black Velvet Mourning crafts eye-catching gothic home décor. I’ve seen different versions of the coffin shelf, and this brand’s creation is now one of my favorites. The Spider Web Coffin Shelf ($47.50) is made of wood and has a neat spider web backing, which really appeals to me. And you can pick your desired color for the web design. When it comes to ordering from Etsy, I understand you want to purchase from trustworthy small businesses. Black Velvet Mourning is a Star Seller and has averaged a five-star rating out of more than 1,260 customer reviews.

Note: Top featured image photo credit- Mila F. @DreamBabyDream via Unsplash