At what age did your parents make you stop trick-or-treating? I remember my last hoorah, going house to house through Carol Villa in search of candy, around age 13. As I got older, my and my friend’s costumes became more and more basic because Halloween was not much more than an excuse to fill a pillowcase with candy bars, sweet tarts, and bubble gum.
But who can blame a kid, really?
And so, yes, we will be letting our youngest, our 13-year-old, trick or treat again this year. Fortunately, our neighborhood embraces the young tweens and teens dressing up and walking the streets to ask for treats. The sentiment seems to be: “They could be getting into trouble, so why not let them dress up and be kids?” I agree! And, bonus, Jason and I get to pick through the bag for the Almond Joys, Nerds and 100 Grands. It’s always way too much candy, so I’ve even been known to stash some away and recycle it during the holiday season.
Our Halloween night will be a relaxing, casual event with chili by the fire and a stroll around the neighborhood to visit with friends. That’s how it works with older kids because they go off independently, but for parents with littles, the night can be slightly more chaotic without proper planning. Check out Christina Katz’s article, More Magic and Fewer Meltdowns, where she offers advice like making sure the kids have had some protein before they head out, bringing a backpack along for discarded pieces of their costumes, and more!
Visiting a pumpkin patch is another wonderful family tradition, and Cheryl Maguire shares tips for making the most of it in Pilgrimage to the Pumpkin Patch. Following her article is our Fall Festivities and Halloween Fun Guide, where you will find not only pumpkin patches in the River Region and nearby but also other festivities that usher in the autumn and upcoming holiday season!
October is a beautiful month to head outdoors with your family, deepen connections with one another, and make memories. Enjoy!
