Each year for Halloween I do some decorating with some stuff I’ve accumulated over the years. It’s just a random collection of a giant spider web, some tombstones on the lawn, and some assorted skulls and things kind of scattered around the front of the house. But this year, I wanted to do a theme – something to tie everything together.

It was by chance that I happened upon this really unique, animated skeleton bartender in Home Depot.  When I saw that creepy guy pouring drinks, I knew what kind of theme to do: Spooky Saloon!  And with that, the Headless Saloon was created!

I knew I was going to need a bar, but I didn’t want to spend a fortune on wood. In fact I didn’t want to spend any money on wood!  Luckily there is a house that was being remodeled/torn down nearby. I went over and they were only too happy to give away some wood – less work for them! I took some weathered 2×6’s, a nice piece of plywood, and some old 2×4’s.

Last Saturday my daughter and I spent the morning putting together a little bar. It was easy since it didn’t really have to be neat or precise. And it was a great opportunity to teach my daughter more about power tools and construction. She sanded, painted, drilled some screws and even pounded in some nails. I love the opportunity to get her excited about wood working.

When it was done I added some lights and put up a background with black fabric. On Halloween night I’ll play some classic Western piano themes and have some smoky drinks on the bar.  I think the kids on the block will love it.