When Does Trick-or-Treating Start in 2024?
Updated: Aug. 14, 2024
Times and guidelines may vary, so when does trick-or-treating start? Here's what to know.
Trick-or-treating is one of the best parts of Halloween—and probably the most anticipated (other than spooktastic Halloween movies). Especially because when your kids come home with a bag full of Halloween candy, there’s that mouthwatering candy tax. Luckily, once you’ve snagged one of the most popular Halloween costumes, you’re ready to go! But when does trick-or-treating start, exactly?
The start time for Halloween can vary based on personal preference, but local news outlets have provided specific time slots for when trick-or-treating typically happens in different areas. These times indicate when the streets are most populated, ensuring a safer environment for kids to collect their spooky treats. Whether you’re in New York, Atlanta, Los Angeles or Washington, D.C., you’ll know exactly when it’s time for trick-or-treating.Â
So, keep reading to answer Halloween’s most anticipated question, “When does trick-or-treating start in 2024?”
Get Reader’s Digest’s Read Up newsletter for more holiday tips, fun facts, humor, cleaning, travel and tech all week long.
What’s the best time to start trick-or-treating?
The ideal time to kick off trick-or-treating varies by location, the age of the kiddos and this year’s Halloween schedule. Generally, younger trick-or-treaters start earlier in the evening. In most neighborhoods, the candy hunt begins around sunset, which usually falls between 5:30 and 6 p.m. Since Halloween falls on a Thursday this year, the timing is perfect because school typically ends around 3 p.m.Â
When does trick-or-treating start in the United States?
Atlanta: Typical trick-or-treating time is between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m., according to local news outlets.
Boston: Local news outlets have said that neighborhood activities usually occur between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Buffalo: Between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m., according to local news.
Charleston: The general window of recommendation is between 5:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Chicago: Festivities typically begin as early as 3 p.m. and end at 7 p.m.
Cincinnati: Local news outlets have suggested that the best time for trick-or-treating is between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Cleveland: The city’s official trick-or-treat festivities are usually held between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., according to local news outlets.
Dallas: Local activities have occurred between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Denver: This Colorado city usually kicks off trick-or-treating around 3:30 p.m. and ends around 7 p.m. on average.
Houston: Different zip codes within the city vary, but generally people began trick-or-treating around 5 p.m. with quiet street corners by 9 p.m.
Indianapolis: The Indy Star has said that Halloween activities can begin around 5:30 p.m. and end around 9 p.m. in some areas.
Los Angeles: Trick-or-treating generally begins around dusk and goes until 8:30 p.m., according to a local blog.
Milwaukee: Local news outlets have suggested taking the streets between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.
Philadelphia:Â Kids begin trick-or-treating between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., says local news outlets.
Phoenix: Per local outlets, communities welcome trick-or-treaters between 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Pittsburgh: Local outlets say community festivities take place between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.
New York City: The Gothamist reports that trick-or-treating starts as early as 4 p.m.
San Antonio: Younger children typically start trick-or-treating as early as 4:30 p.m., while older kids tend to wait until around 7 p.m. The streets are quiet by 9 p.m. (or 10 p.m. at the latest) says local news outlets.
San Diego: Some Halloween activities, including trick-or-treating, occur between 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
San Jose: Trick-or-treating typically starts around 5 p.m. and ends at 9 p.m.
Seattle: Trick-or-treating usually starts around 4 p.m. and continues until 7 p.m. However, various neighborhoods and cities offer specific times and events.
Washington, D.C.: Neighborhood activities typically occur between 5:30 p.m. and 9 p.m., according to local news outlets.
How can I practice safe trick-or-treating?
Despite trick-or-treating being a popular Halloween activity—where you’ll find tons of kids in the streets searching for candy—you should still be cautious. Here’s how to practice safe trick-or-treating below:
- Buddy up: Whether it’s with a grown-up or a group of friends, having a chaperone ensures everyone stays safe and sound. And if your child is old enough to trick-or-treat without you, make sure they’re going with a group you trust.Â
- Map your candy quest: Whether you’re supervising your kids or whether they’re old enough to go alone, chart out their trick-or-treat adventure through well-lit, familiar haunts before heading out.Â
- Wear colorful costumes: Choose an easy costume stands out at night—add some reflective tape or glow sticks for that extra spooky glow.Â
- Check your treats: Before your kids dive into their candy stash, inspect it and only enjoy treats that are sealed and safe.
- Always have a light: Bring a flashlight or use your phone to light your path and make sure drivers see you coming.
- Know your info and stay in touch: Make sure the kiddos know their home address and phone number, just in case they get separated from the group.
- Set a curfew: Set a return time to ensure everyone gets home safely, with their candy bags full and their feet still happy.
Why trust us
At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experience where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.
Originally Published: August 19, 2021
