Halloween has a long reputation of being a lively night, with neighborhoods filled with spooky decorations and streets echoing with laughter and excitement. Children wearing all sorts of costumes run door-to-door, yelling “Trick-or-Treat!” as they hope to fill their buckets full of candy before the day ends. Lately, though, it feels like the streets have been more deserted, with fewer kids walking through the neighborhood at night and fewer homes emerging to greet them. So, is trick-or-treating really disappearing?

In recent years, trick-or-treating has been starting to decline. A huge reason is safety concerns, as parents prefer their kids to participate in “Trunk-or-Treat” events. These events are often held in a school or local parking lot. Families decorate their car trunks with Halloween decorations, handing out candy and prizes. Trunk-or-Treat appeals more to parents since it’s a safer and more controlled environment, without the potential risks associated with regular Trick-or-Treating, such as stranger danger and traffic. 

It makes sense—some parents might feel cautious about letting their kids visit neighbors they don’t know well, especially if they live on a different street. Traffic accidents are also something to be wary of, as drivers could get distracted on the dark street and accidentally hit someone. During Halloween, pedestrians are 50% more likely to be hit, and 18% of those victims are children. Overall, it’s easier for parents and guardians to supervise a Trunk-or-Treat area and causes less stress than letting a child roam around at night.

Of course, it depends on what neighborhood you live in, especially whether there’s a younger population or a more social environment. 

Modern social isolation is another factor. As families become busier, they spend less time socializing with their neighbors, and social trust declines. The rise of technology doesn’t help, as social media can connect people online without leaving their house, discouraging the need to go outside to talk to those around them. Many would also prefer to just interact with close friends and family. Since people might be wary of interacting within their local community, it could cause distrust, with concerns like candy being drugged or hostile strangers.

Although Trick-or-Treating is dying, different ways to celebrate the holiday, such as Trunk-or-Treat, staying home and watching a scary movie, or carving a pumpkin, can still offer a safe and fulfilling experience for kids. Halloween itself is also still as active as ever—millions celebrate it every year with crazy costumes and exciting events. The modern traditions might be evolving, but its spirit will remain.