So hard to adjust to changes, isn't it? You created these wonderful traditions for the very people who aren't there to enjoy them. I'm sure you have many mental images, not just of the decorating but of the kids' excitement and costumes and next-day belly aches.
If you have trick-or-treaters, try to find a few things you can manage to do yourself to bring pleasure to the next generation of kids, even if they aren't yours. I don't celebrate Christmas, so I do a lot of outside decorating for Halloween. I don't do much inside anymore now that my son is grown. I have found it's best for me to make a "map" of what lights go where and - I kid you not - which extension cords go where (I have to sort of weave them through the bushes because of the way the different light stands connects. That way, I don't have to lay all the stuff out every year and tear my hair out. I also plug in every light strand indoors first, in case there's a bad bulb somewhere. It's hell when that happens outside and the whole display doesn't work!
Next, pick out the best of the best - favorite items, things the kids made or picked out, and label them discreetly. At some point, the kids may want these things even if they don't think so now. I imagine your kids will come around at some point and will be touched by the "inheritance" as well as the fond memories of all your wild and crazy decorating.
Is there a neighborhood kid or 3 who just love doing this stuff but don't get a chance to do it at home because their parents either aren't into it or can't afford it? You might get some willing helpers, perhaps in exchange for giving them a few duplicates to take to their own houses. Let them be a little creative in how things can be arranged - you might start a new tradition or two. And take pictures!
Look at the things you have bags and bags of - are they all important, in good condition, and meaningful? Or are some of them just items you bought on sale because you could, and they aren't meaningful? Do some sorting if you can.
Do you just need to downsize to make this more manageable? One thing I did with some Christmas ornaments and other decor that were no longer needed in our Jewish household (long story why that happened - not relevant) is that I donated them to a shelter for battered women. I had seen a listing in the newspaper of what different charities needed, and that jumped out at me. I was able to ship them to a central address of the supervising agency (because of course the address of the shelter is confidential), and the decorations got to the women and children who had left their homes with absolutely nothing. They even sent me a photo of the things all hung up - a lovely touch. So maybe there's a way to make yourself feel good while helping other kids (and adults) who just don't have the resources. If you can't find a group on your own, call the non-emergency number of your police department and ask if the domestic violence officer can refer you. There are also other local service agencies who deal with underprivileged kids and put on Halloween parties for families who can't afford costumes or candy - they might enjoy these things as well.
Hugs to you.
