Halloween is on October 31. It is not a day off. For many families it is a fun evening of costumes and candy. It has old religious roots, but today most people treat it as a playful custom. You can join, or not.
In the early evening, children in costumes walk door to door with a bag. They knock and say "Trick or treat!" You give each child one or two small wrapped candies. Parents usually walk with younger children.
A large bag of wrapped candy from a supermarket is enough for most homes.
Some families give small toys or stickers instead. A teal pumpkin outside often means the home has non-food treats for children with food allergies.
Many neighborhoods also have trunk-or-treat events, where people give candy from cars in a parking lot, often at a school or place of worship.
Porch light on and decorations: "Children are welcome to knock."
Porch light off: "Please do not knock." Children and parents usually respect this.
If you do not want visitors
Turn off the porch light and lights at the front of the home.
Put a small sign on the door: "Sorry, no candy tonight."
Or leave a bowl outside with a sign: "Please take one."
Nobody will think you are rude.
Costumes at school and work
Many schools have a costume day or parade. Read school emails. Some schools ban masks, fake weapons or scary costumes. Some schools do not celebrate at all.
Some offices allow costumes or hold a party. Wear one only if invited. Keep it work-friendly.
Avoid costumes that copy another culture, religion or ethnic group, or use dark face makeup. Many people find them offensive.
Choose costumes labeled flame resistant. Keep them short enough not to trip on.
Masks can block vision. Face paint is often safer. Test makeup on a small area of skin first.
Add reflective tape or carry a flashlight. Drivers have trouble seeing children at dusk.
Check candy at home before children eat it. Throw away anything unwrapped or torn. Remove small hard candy and gum for young children.
Do not buy decorative contact lenses without a prescription. Selling them that way is illegal, and they can hurt your eyes.
Use battery lights in carved pumpkins instead of candles.
Drive slowly in neighborhoods that evening.
Leaving the porch light on, then being surprised by visitors.
Giving homemade or unwrapped food. Many parents will throw it away.
Letting young children walk alone after dark.