Trick-or-Treating

As October progresses, a familiar excitement builds for Halloween. This year, with October 31st landing on a Friday, a secondary date for spooky festivities is gaining traction: National Trick or Treat day.Celebrated this year on October 25th, this occasion offers an option for those seeking to enjoy the traditions of Halloween without weekday constraints.

The Rise of a Second Halloween

National Trick or Treat Day emerged from a desire to make the celebration of Halloween more accessible. Originally conceived in 2019 following a petition to permanently shift Halloween to a Saturday, the idea resonated with many facing work or school commitments on the conventional date. While the petition didn’t result in a permanent change, it sparked the creation of National Trick or Treat Day, recognized annually on the last Saturday of October.

The National Day Calendar formally acknowledges the date, giving it a degree of official recognition, even though it isn’t a federal holiday. The purpose of the day is to provide an additional prospect for communities to come together and enjoy the fun of costumes, decorations, and, of course, trick-or-treating.

Why a Saturday Celebration?

The initial impetus for establishing National Trick or Treat Day stemmed from a petition garnering over 150,000 signatures, spearheaded by the Halloween & Costume Association. Advocates argued that a Saturday celebration would allow greater participation from families and individuals typically burdened by weekday schedules. Though, the organizers later clarified that National Trick or Treat Day was intended as an expansion of Halloween, offering another option, rather than a replacement.

Halloween Dates: A Five-Year Outlook

Predicting when Halloween will fall can help with planning celebrations. Here’s a look at the next five years:

Did You Know? The popularity of Halloween can be traced back to the ancient Celtic festival of samhain, were people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts.

Participating in National Trick or Treat Day

While not universally observed, many communities are embracing National Trick or Treat Day with local events and festivities. It is important to verify whether your neighborhood is planning organized trick-or-treating activities. Checking with local community centers or homeowner associations can offer clarity. Safety is paramount; always prioritize well-lit areas and accompany young children.

Pro Tip: Consider checking local social media groups or neighborhood websites to see if any events are planned for National Trick or Treat Day in your area.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to celebrate on October 25th or October 31st is a personal one.Both dates offer opportunities for fun and spooky celebration.

Will you be celebrating on National Trick or Treat Day this year, or sticking to the traditional Halloween date? What are your favorite Halloween traditions?

Share this article with your friends and family and let’s discuss your Halloween plans in the comments below!