As we enter the Halloween season, many start to ponder if there is an age limit for trick-or-treating. This tradition evolved from the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain and medieval European practices such as “souling” and “mumming.” 

This all began as a way to appease spirits, and as the generations evolved, it became a practice for people to ask for prayers or food for the dead. Moving forward, this eventually transitioned into a community-based activity to prevent mischief by offering treats to the communities. 

Trick or treating is a safe, social and nostalgic tradition that offers an opportunity to connect with local communities. Including face-to-face interactions between neighbors and community members transforms public spaces into social zones for shared experiences. This tradition fosters a sense of unity and the act of getting people together and out of their houses allows friendly conversation and a deeper appreciation for he neighborhood. 

Senior student Elizabeth Johnson shares, “High school students should be able to trick or treat because it brings the joy and kid in us back. There are only a few years left that we can have that kid essence, so yes, students should trick or treat.” 

Many debate the age limit for trick-or-treating. The most common ages to be trick-or-treating are either 13 or 14 years old. However, there is no age limit as it is welcomed to anyone and everyone to go out in a costume and ask for some treats. The decision to stop participating in this tradition is more behavior-based, rather than age-limited, as the older kids ages (16 and above) need to be mindful of their manners and respect the younger children around them. 

Elizabeth Johsnon adds, “People should not judge other people, even if they are older, when out trick or treating  because everyone is their own person and if they want to be out trick or treating then other people shouldn’t judge.”  

The invitation to dress up in costumes for Halloween is open and encouraged for everyone, so why should trick-or-treating be that way as well? Bringing the communities together allows everyone to everyone to enjoy a night filled with treats, costumes, and spirits.