23 October, 2025
By: Jaliyah Fitch, Opinion Editor
Photo via Peanuts, “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown
With the month of October comes Halloween, the season marked with carved pumpkins, scary movies, and the ever iconic tradition of trick or treating. Trick or treating is a beloved tradition for many ages, as it can be celebrated amongst friends or family. Additionally, the act of dressing up, and of course the free candy, only add to the fun.
Despite this, some may argue that the activity is only entertaining for a certain age group–which leads to less people participating in this holiday staple. Nonetheless, I believe that trick or treating is a Halloween staple that can never go out of style!
Generally, most discard the tradition simply because they personally outgrow it. Some would rather go out to a party, or watch a scary movie if they have no other plans. Where I can understand the natural aging of taste, this seems far from the case here at Moreau.
Based on a student survey asking whether Mariners still trick or treated, out of 190 responses, 70.5 percent reported on still being active trick or treaters. Of that percentage, upperclassmen (grades 11/12) were the majority, showing that the older student body still enjoys trick or treating, contrary to the idea that it loses its spark with age.
In an interview with theology teacher and father James Hannon, he says that he still goes trick or treating with his children.
“I still have a blast! I enjoy taking my kids trick or treating, so it’s not like a chore for me.”
Additionally, he states that he looks forward to participating in giving out candy on Halloween when his kids are older, which goes to show that trick or treating can be just as enjoyable even when you are on the contributing end of the tradition!
In another interview featuring Mr. Parker, he states that even though Halloween is a big deal for his family and himself, he doesn’t really trick or treat anymore since his kids are older. Despite this, he also acknowledges that it’s still fun, “seeing the kids running around and dressing up while trick or treating–I think it’s awesome.”
Even if most dismiss trick or treating as a matter of personal preference, its social relevance cannot be denied by today’s standards. No matter the age, everyone likes to embrace the Halloween spirit and participate in the spooky season shenanigans–if not for self-enjoyment, then for the sake of celebrating with others.
This season, I encourage Mariners to embrace their inner whimsy and go trick or treating. Enjoy the holiday tradition and take advantage of the free candy. Because seriously, who says no to free candy?
About the Author
