Children run from house to house every Halloween, eager for fun, candy, and costumes. However, the question of how old is too old to go trick-or-treating keeps coming up as the years pass. Halloween is for everyone, regardless of age. Although according to some, others think there should be an age restriction. We wonder when, if ever, is the right time to hang up the candy bag because of this ongoing debate.
Halloween began over 2,000 years ago, when people believed spirits could cross into the world of the living on October 31. To protect themselves against the spirits, they lit bonfires and wore costumes to scare away spirits in the human realm. Later, the holiday blended with Christian traditions, becoming Halloween. Halloween spread to America as Irish immigrants migrated here, bringing many of their customs to America, where one happens to be the beloved festival of halloween. As time went on, Halloween became a fun tradition where they carve pumpkins, dress up, and go trick-or-treating becoming the fun, family-centered celebration we know today.
Teens and parents have different opinions on when, if ever, someone is too old to go trick-or-treating. Most students say there is no limit. One of those students Parneet Sodhi an IB sophomore says: ”I don’t believe there’s any age limit, since Halloween brings out a carefree spirit in everyone and gives them a fun day to enjoy.” Her words reflected how Halloween is a holiday that lets people forget their worries, enjoy the simple excitement of dressing up, and have a fun day filled with laughter, candy, and memories no matter how old they are. Another student has also shared that she has the same feeling towards halloween. Krithisha Bharath, an IB freshman says: “Halloween is meant to be fun, and teens are still young so they deserve the chance to enjoy it too.” Her words show that teens are like any other children and that it’s a time for them to dress up, share laughs with friends, and celebrate without feeling like they are too old to live their lives.
Opinions differ on whether trick-or-treating should be limited to younger children. While some believe there is no age limit, others feel it is just for kids and teenagers should eventually stop. Most supporters of an age limit worry that older trick-or-treaters are taking away from the experience for younger children. They also may worry about how teens will act around younger kids. However, as long as older kids are kind and respectful towards the younger trick-or-treaters and follow all the rules in the community, it should work out. By doing this, people of all ages can enjoy this fun tradition.
Some students find a way to suppress both sides of the argument. Teens can still find a way to participate in Halloween in various ways, such as accompanying younger siblings trick-or-treating, hosting parties, or volunteering at halloween events. This gives teenagers a chance to enjoy in their own fun way, while ensuring halloween can leave a lasting impact on all kids no matter their age.
Halloween is a holiday full of fun, creativity, and community, enjoyed by people of all ages. While some believe trick-or-treating should be limited to younger children, others feel everyone should be able to join in as Halloween is for everyone, and no one is ever too old to enjoy the fun this holiday holds for the people across the United States . Ultimately, the spirit of the holiday is about laughter and shared memories, proving that no one is ever truly too old to dress up. Have fun, and embrace the spirit of Halloween magic!