Goblins, ghouls, and ghosts roam the streets each halloween. Children, dressed in fun costumes, go door to door, saying the magic words, “Trick or Treat!” As they fill their buckets with candy, trick-or-treating remains a beloved activity for young kids and older ones alike.
As a highschooler, it can feel odd to walk the streets in costume while little kids, accompanied by their parents, search for candy. Many highschoolers stop trick-or-treating all together, opting instead for Halloween parties or staying home to hand out candy.
However, trick-or-treating isn’t just for little kids. Looking back on my own experiences, I realize how much I’ve bonded with friends and created meaningful memories while out collecting candy.
Whether I was dressed as a pumpkin, a witch, or even a bucket of popcorn, trick-or-treating allowed me to hold onto my childhood for just a little longer. It’s tough to let go of tradition that’s been a part of my life for so long. The activity brings me back to carefree days in elementary school, a time when worries were few and far.
Trick-or-treating offers a unique, stress-relieving experience. For one night a year, it’s easy to forget the pressures of highschool and focus on just one thing: earning free candy. Those magic words, “Trick or treat!” hold a special kind of charm.
Last Halloween, my friends and I went trick-or-treating together. I was a bucket of popcorn that year, but my costume made it hard to grab candy. Each time I tried to scoop some candy from a bowl left by a home-owner, I only managed to touch air. I had to rely on my friend to help me.
After a few times of getting me candy, she got annoyed and wanted to quit, but she stuck with it. Although it was irritating for her, I appreciated her patience; thanks to her, I ended up with quite a haul that year.
While there are plenty of other fun Halloween activities, like having a movie night or visiting Haunted houses. Many high schoolers rush to grow up, seeking independence and adult-like experiences. But, trick-or-treating is a fleeting activity you can’t fully enjoy once you’re grown, making it even more precious.
Trick-or-treating has not only brought me closer to friends with people, but it also remains an important part of my Halloween celebration. It’s a delightful way to relieve stress, a much-needed escape as a teenager. More importantly, it’s all about the free candy.