What Time Does Trick-or-Treating Start and End on a Saturday? Halloween Etiquette and Safety, Explained by Experts (Exclusive)

This year, Halloween falls on a Saturday, the first time since 2020, providing a perfect opportunity for families to engage in costumes, candy, and festivities without the usual school-night curfew. As communities prepare for the evening, many parents may be pondering the optimal timing for trick-or-treating and the etiquette that accompanies this beloved tradition.

To shed light on these matters, PEOPLE consulted Lizzie Post, the great-great-granddaughter of Emily Post and a co-host of the Awesome Etiquette podcast. Post provided insights on the unspoken rules of trick-or-treating aimed at children, their parents, and the residents of neighbourhoods. She emphasised that while an influx of trick-or-treaters can be overwhelming, homeowners should only purchase candy within their budget. “If you only want to spend £30 on Halloween candy, then when you run out, you turn your lights off,” she advised.

Preparation is essential, particularly when it comes to ensuring the safety of young trick-or-treaters. Dr. Tanya Altmann, a licensed paediatrician and founder of Calabasas Pediatrics, highlighted the significance of proper planning. “A well-fitting costume, good visibility, a clear plan, and age-appropriate supervision can make a meaningful difference,” she stated. Dr. Altmann’s advice aims to help families maximise their enjoyment of this spooky season while prioritising safety.

While the specific hours for trick-or-treating can vary by community, Post notes that a window between 4 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. is generally accepted. She reinforced the importance of adhering to local guidelines during trick-or-treating, even on a weekend. For younger children, heading out around 5 p.m. allows them to collect candy before nightfall, while older children may prefer to wait until it gets dark. Nevertheless, after 9:30 p.m., it is typically considered impolite to continue knocking on doors.

Another question often arises: how can one tell if a house is participating in Halloween festivities? A simple yet effective indicator is the porch light. A lit porch light usually signifies that the homeowners are ready to welcome trick-or-treaters with sweets. In contrast, a dark porch light indicates that either the residents are no longer participating or have run out of candy. Post encourages families to respect these signals and move on if a home is not welcoming visitors.

The etiquette at the door also warrants attention. Children are encouraged to give a firm knock or ring the doorbell without being overly insistent. “Wait patiently,” Post advised, as those inside may need a moment to answer. If no response comes after a reasonable wait, she suggests moving on to the next house. When the door opens, a cheerful “trick-or-treat” is expected, and homeowners should clarify how many pieces of candy a child is allowed to take.

The tradition of trick-or-treating is not exclusive to young children. Post asserted that teenagers should also be welcomed as long as they come dressed in costumes. “They’re out having fun. They’re not out smashing pumpkins,” she remarked. However, homeowners need not feel obligated to distribute candy to teens who do not make an effort to dress up, as participation hinges on the spirit of the occasion.

Safety is paramount during Halloween, with Dr. Altmann stressing the importance of choosing appropriate costumes that allow for clear visibility. “Avoid long hems or oversized shoes that could cause children to trip, as well as masks that obstruct their vision,” she recommended. Additional measures, such as using reflective tape and carrying flashlights, can enhance visibility in darker environments.

Parental supervision varies with age; younger children should always be accompanied by a trusted adult, whereas older kids may roam with friends, provided they agree on a safe route and check-in times. Educating children on road safety is critical; reminders to use sidewalks and crosswalks, and to look both ways before crossing the street, can prevent accidents.

Once the evening wraps up, parents should inspect their children’s collected treats for any unwrapped or suspicious items. Awareness of potential food allergies and choking hazards is crucial, particularly for younger children who might not yet understand the risks associated with certain types of candies.

In summary, Halloween promises to be a festive celebration this year as families take to the streets in costume. Armed with guidelines on the best practices for trick-or-treating, parents and children alike can carve out precious memories while staying safe and respectful within their communities.