Home Depot's 12-foot skeleton sells out again for Halloween
The 90-pound figure, known as Skelly, has been a seasonal fixture on lawns since 2020, now featuring Bluetooth audio and a growing family of accessories.
By Naomi Whitaker ·
Home Depot sold out of its 12-foot skeleton, Skelly, before Halloween began. The 90-pound figure, which retails for $299, has been a consistent seller for six consecutive years. The product features glowing LCD eyes and now includes a Bluetooth connection that allows owners to record sounds or speak into the figure in real time.
The skeleton first appeared in 2020 during the first year of the pandemic. It quickly became a popular choice for outdoor decoration across the United States. From California to New Jersey and in Brooklyn, the figure appeared on suburban lawns and brownstone stoops. Many owners kept the skeleton out year-round, dressing it for Christmas, the Fourth of July, or summer events.
The product line has expanded since its debut. In 2024, Home Depot released a chest lightning attachment for the figure. This year, the company added a dog, a cat, and a smaller 6.5-foot version for customers with limited space. The original 12-foot model remains the most sought-after item, consistently selling out before the holiday.
Aubrey Horowitz, a merchant for Decorative Holiday at Home Depot, described the figure as the ultimate American decoration. She noted that customers value the nostalgia and connection the item provides with their communities. Horowitz also stated that many shoppers believe bigger is better when selecting yard decor.
The popularity of the skeleton reflects a specific cultural approach to seasonal display. While Halloween has existed for centuries, the scale of American celebrations often involves elaborate and oversized decorations. This trend includes detailed costumes for children and adults, as well as extensive yard setups that can last all year.
The item serves as a marker of the United States' 250th anniversary, featured in a recurring series on American objects. The skeleton represents a blend of commercial success and community tradition. It has moved from a pandemic-era novelty to a standard feature of the American Halloween landscape.
The figure is not the only large skeleton on the market, but its specific size and features have made it a distinct choice for many households. The Bluetooth capability adds an interactive element that previous versions lacked. Home Depot expects high demand for the remaining inventory and the smaller 6.5-foot model as the holiday approaches.
Source: Sentinel Colorado
