photo credit Boyd Loving
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Teaneck Nj, as Halloween approaches, a new poll from Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU) reveals a surprising level of consensus on one important holiday question: when should kids stop trick-or-treating? According to the FDU Poll, Americans across all demographics agree that around age 13 and a half is the appropriate time for children to hang up their costumes. But there are some who feel differently—particularly younger Americans and those with left-leaning political views, who believe trick-or-treating should continue for as long as kids want.
Trick-or-Treating: A National Debate
The poll found that, while the average respondent believes 13.5 years old is the right time to stop trick-or-treating, 25% of Americans say there’s no age limit—kids should be able to collect candy for as long as they like. On the other end of the spectrum, 3% of respondents think trick-or-treating should be discouraged at any age. Interestingly, older Americans are more likely to suggest that children should stop at ages 11 or 12, while younger respondents tend to give more leeway for older kids to join in the fun.
“Secular holidays like Halloween require us to make up our own practices and norms,” says Dan Cassino, a professor of Government and Politics at Fairleigh Dickinson University and Executive Director of the FDU Poll. “Local practices vary widely, but the consensus on when kids should stop trick-or-treating is surprisingly consistent across groups.”
Politics and Trick-or-Treating
The poll also highlights some political differences in views on trick-or-treating. While supporters of both Kamala Harris and Donald Trump averaged 13.5 years as the ideal age to stop trick-or-treating, Harris supporters are more open to kids of any age continuing the tradition (30%) compared to Trump supporters (20%).
Among those most open to older kids trick-or-treating are people who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, with 46% saying kids should be able to trick-or-treat at any age. Similarly, 53% of self-identified socialists believe there should be no age limit for the holiday tradition, with their average response of 15.3 years being the highest of any group.
“Politics isn’t just about how you’re voting: it’s a way of seeing the world,” adds Cassino. “Groups that advocate for more generous social policies are also more open to the idea of giving away candy to anyone who comes to their door.”
Full-Size Candy Bars Gaining Popularity
One of the more lighthearted findings from the poll is that 12% of Americans plan to hand out full-size candy bars this Halloween, rather than the traditional fun-size or mini versions. While mini candies still reign supreme (46% plan to give them out), this trend reflects a growing desire to create a more memorable experience for trick-or-treaters. Older Americans, however, are more likely to skip candy-giving altogether, with about a third saying they don’t plan to hand out anything this year.
“Warehouse stores have made it a lot cheaper to give out full-size bars,” Cassino notes. “Many Americans fondly remember getting a full-size candy as a kid and want to pass that feeling on to today’s trick-or-treaters.”
Poisoned Candy Myths Persist
Despite the rarity of actual cases, the fear of poisoned or drug-laced Halloween candy continues to linger. The FDU Poll shows that 34% of Americans believe that tainted candy is “sometimes” or “often” hidden in trick-or-treat bags. Older respondents and Trump supporters are more likely to hold these concerns, even though instances of poisoned candy are exceedingly rare.
“People who are more worried about crime in general tend to believe in the urban legend of adulterated Halloween candy,” says Cassino. He points out that while some marijuana edibles are sold in candy-like packaging, they’re expensive enough that it’s highly unlikely someone would hand them out to trick-or-treaters.
The Bottom Line
Halloween traditions may vary by community, but when it comes to trick-or-treating, Americans largely agree: by 13, it’s time to start retiring the costume. However, for those who think the holiday should be for everyone—regardless of age—there’s still plenty of candy to go around, with full-size bars gaining ground. As always, myths about poisoned candy persist, but the spirit of Halloween fun remains at the forefront for most families.
What are your plans for Halloween this year? Will you be giving out mini-candies or full-size treats? Let us know in the comments!
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jr high is too old
That guy in the picture is definitely to old.
The guy in the picture is the highly revered former mayor Keith Killion
5th grade is the UPPER limit.
Could have sworn I saw Siobhan Winograd dressed as the LIMU EMU last year.