Traditional Versus Alternative Halloween

It appears non traditional and alternative methods for celebrating Halloween have at least supplemented traditional trick or treating. This has been going on for about two decades now, slowly as I grew out of trick or treating.

There are many reasons why events such as parties and trunk or treating have become more common and normal.

1. It's safer

Going up to people's houses and homes simply isn't the same as it was in my era. My mom didn't take us to many houses even then for this reason. However she believed in quality over quantity and would take us to a few houses where we received plenty of treats. These other Halloween avenues are doing just that, but in a safer fashion.

2. One or two stops is more convenient.

Just think if you take children to two parties and a trunk or treat event, where they circle around different cars at a church and get candy from people opening their trunks. Kids actually receive more candy than the average trick or treater would in seemingly less time. Again quality over quantity.

3. It is simply different and more fun

Many houses and neighborhoods try to put a limit on how old a child should be to receive candy, and which snacks should be distributed. At these alternate venues, none of that seems to matter most. The main purpose is a fun, sugar rush induced Halloween.

4. More activities can be accomplished, especially on a school night.

Halloween is on a Friday this year, and the local children actually have a teacher workday. Therefore they have an entire day to enjoy Halloween festivities. However, by going to alternate Halloween venues and parties before and after or in lieu of trick or treating, children still receive plenty of treats, plus still have time to go to haunted houses and trails if they choose. It always seemed like we were rushing around during childhood to do everything in one night. Now things are more efficient.

The thrill of trick or treating may never fully go away, especially in the more elite communities. However, these various alternatives make it safer and more tempting for parents not to drive their children all over the neighborhood.

Do you still take your children trick or treating? If not, do you partake in the various alternative activities?