The practice of distributing sugary treats on October 31st is a deeply ingrained element of contemporary Halloween celebrations. This custom serves as a modern evolution of historical practices that sought to appease spirits and ensure the safety of communities during a time believed to be a boundary between the living and the dead.
Its importance stems from several factors. Initially, offering food was meant to placate potentially mischievous supernatural entities, preventing them from causing harm. As traditions evolved, this morphed into a social exchange where children would perform songs or tricks in exchange for food or small tokens, a practice known as “souling” or “guising.” The economic boom of the 20th century, coupled with the mass production and affordability of confectionery, facilitated the replacement of homemade goods with commercially produced candies, solidifying the current practice.
