Halloween is just around the corner once more.
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The annual celebration on October 31 originated with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts.
The event has more recently been popularised and commercialised in the United States where residents dress up and head out doorknocking as part of a trick or treat concept.
More recently this activity has become popular in Australia, although there is a strong divide between those for or against the event.
Love or hate it, there is a good chance that someone will come knocking on your door for a trick or treat on October 31.
Some people eagerly wait with treats in hand while others are less welcoming, at times sending people packing with a stern protest against the celebration.
With this in mind it is not surprising that a few simple guidelines have been introduced in recent times to help those trick or treaters experience their adventure in an enjoyableand safe way.
Tips for people who support trick or treaters include:
- Putting out decorations, possibly balloons on your letter box, so they know they are approaching a safe house
- Only hand out treats that are fully wrapped and sealed
Tips for trick or treaters:
- Ensure young people are accompanied by a responsible older person/adult
- Do not continue door knocking late into the night, once the sun goes down it is time to stop. Even supporters can get tired of the event if it continues after dark
- And remember good manners go a long way
The Southern Highland News is putting together an interactive map to identify the homes of people in the community that will support Halloween. If you would like to be included please send your address details and specifications (such as times when trick or treaters are welcome) to jackie.meyers@fairfaxmedia.com.au