As Halloween approaches and pumpkins pop up on porches, and the eternal debate reignites: Are kids ever too old for trick-or-treating? Last year, more than 90% of our Instagram voters in a national Macaroni KID poll believe there’s no age limit on Halloween fun! But not everyone agrees…
What Parents Think About the Halloween Age Debate
Many parents believe you’re never too old to enjoy trick-or-treating. "No one is too old. If they show up, they get candy!!" wrote Pam H. on a Facebook post about the issue in a sentiment echoed by many.
Others, like Laura T., agreed, but noted older trick-or-treaters should remember how magical the day is for younger kids. "As long as you’re being respectful and mindful of the smaller ones around you, (age) doesn’t really matter to me," she says.
Becky S. pointed out that those teens chose to do something fun with their friends or even their younger siblings, instead of going out drinking or worse. A little candy is a sweet reward for wholesome behavior.
Creepy Encounters and Where Some Draw the Line
Not everyone shares the “no age limit” view. Karrie W. recalled a creepy experience that made her go ewww: "One year, I had a middle-aged guy show up wearing only an adult diaper and announce he was a baby… that experience and a few others that year really soured me on handing out treats."
Inclusion and Halloween Spirit: The Heart of Trick-or-Treating
For Katie B., the Halloween spirit is all about inclusion. "I think anybody should be able to trick-or-treat if it’s in their heart to do so… I also think people should not withhold candy because someone does not have a costume. There are many reasons that person may not have one. It could be financial, sensory, etc. Same goes for why some kids may not say trick or treat. They may be nonverbal, they may be shy, etc." She gets straight to the heart of Halloween spirit: "Just give out the candy and enjoy the night!"
Our poll even got some moms thinking. "OK, well, I’m 42 but really short, so if I wear a mask, I think I could get away with it 🤣," joked Michelle N.
Poll Results: Is There Really an Age Limit for Trick-or-Treating?
Where do you stand? Does the sight of teens — or even adults — ringing doorbells for candy make you cringe, or do you think Halloween is for everyone? The debate is on!
According to last year's Instagram poll, more than 90% of respondents say there should not be an age limit for trick-or-treating, but 8% firmly believe there should be a cutoff.
Cast Your Vote in the Halloween Age Debate!
👻 Join the Halloween age debate now! If you're on mobile, head over to our Instagram post and tell us what you think. Are we ever too old to don a costume and collect candy? Cast your vote, yes or no, and don’t forget to tell us why.
Don’t just vote — stay in the loop! Follow us on Instagram for Halloween fun and family fun all year!
