Trick-or-treating

Trick or Treater

Souling on Halloween

Halloween Shop, Derry, September 2010 (02)

Waterdown Public School, Ontario, 1928 halloween costume

Trick or Treating - Beaumont, California (1950)

Tricks or treats 1928

Trick-or-treating is a Halloween tradition that involves children dressing in costumes and going from house to house in their neighborhoods, asking for treats such as candy and sometimes money, with the question, "Trick or treat?" The "trick" part of the phrase is a threat to perform mischief on the homeowners or their property if no treat is given. Trick-or-treating is primarily practiced in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Ireland, and Australia on or around October 31, the evening before All Hallows' Day.

History

The practice of trick-or-treating has its roots in medieval European practices such as "mumming," which involved people going door-to-door in costume, performing short scenes or parts of plays in exchange for food or drink. The tradition of dressing in costume and begging door to door for treats on holidays dates back to the Middle Ages and includes Christmas wassailing. Trick-or-treating resembles the late medieval practice of "souling," when poor people would go door to door on Hallowmas (November 1), receiving food in return for prayers for the dead on All Souls' Day (November 2). It became a widespread practice in the United States and Canada in the 1920s and 1930s, first referred to as "guising" in North America.

Customs and Practices

Children participating in trick-or-treating typically wear Halloween costumes and travel in groups accompanied by adults. The tradition involves going from door to door in a neighborhood, ringing doorbells, and saying "trick or treat" when the door is opened. Homeowners will then hand out treats such as candies, chocolates, and sometimes fruits or money. In recent years, due to health and safety concerns, many parents choose to inspect the treats collected by their children, and some communities organize "trunk-or-treat" events, where treats are given out from the trunks of cars parked in a central location to ensure a safer environment for children.

Cultural Significance

Trick-or-treating is a significant part of Halloween celebrations and has cultural importance in the countries where it is practiced. It is seen as a community-building event, where neighbors interact and participate in the festive spirit. The tradition also has elements of cultural heritage, linking back to ancient practices of honoring the dead and the changing of the seasons.

Controversies and Safety

While trick-or-treating is generally seen as a fun and harmless activity, there have been concerns over safety, especially regarding children walking at night and the potential for receiving harmful items. Communities and law enforcement agencies often issue safety guidelines, such as recommending that children carry flashlights, travel in groups, and have their treats inspected by adults. There have also been discussions about the appropriateness of older children and teenagers participating in trick-or-treating.

See Also

• Halloween
• Halloween costume
• All Hallows' Day
• All Souls' Day