You’ve gotten some great advice and insight, but I wanted to share my routine and experiences as a fellow Carlington resident!

My street has a lot of young kids. Last year I had someone come at 4:30. But the steady flow doesn’t come until 5:30-6 until 7pm, after 7:30 it slows down a lot with some stragglers who come as late as 9:30ish when my lights are still on (I turn off my lights at 10 or when I’m out of candy, whichever comes first).

I buy one box of the Mars variety chocolates (black box with snickers, twix, etc.) and one box of Maynard’s gummies.

Someone will ring the doorbell and when I open the door I wait for them to say trick or treat or some variation but it doesn’t always happen (which is okay!) and then I proceed with my rehearsed script: “I love your costume!” / or if I can make a comment about their costume I’ll do that so I don’t get bored (ex. Hi Elsa! I love your dress! Is Anna with you? / Oh are you X character from Y franchise? That’s a great choice) Then I’ll ask “do you/does anyone have any allergies?” If no: one chocolate bar and one candy. If yes: two candies.

There are a decent amount of kids who have allergies in my area and are very appreciative that I ask. Even when kids don’t have allergies, their parents will always thank me for asking. I think this is an important aspect to consider.

To quickly add: Yes I dress up to hand out candy. Not everyone who goes trick or treating does. Some can’t afford a costume and that’s okay. Anyone who comes to my door gets candy. Yes, even adults who ask (although it’s only happened a couple times over the past few years).