Trick or treating might be the most beloved part of Halloween — but timing really matters. Go out too early, and you're met with awkward looks and unopened doors. Head out too late, and the lights are off, the sweets are gone, and your little goblins are grumpy.
To help you get it right, we spoke to parents who’ve navigated the Halloween scene for years. In this guide, you'll hear from them directly as we explore when not to go trick or treating — and why timing, community vibes, and a little common sense go a long way.
"The Golden Window" — Interview with a Halloween Veteran
We sat down with Rachel, a mum of three from Cardiff, UK, whose teenagers have now retired from the trick-or-treating game. Here's what she had to say:
Q: What’s the number one mistake you see parents make on Halloween night?
Rachel: "Oh, definitely heading out too early. I get it — the kids are excited and in costume by 4:30. But honestly, if you're ringing doorbells before 5:30, most people aren't even home yet. They’re still making dinner or just getting back from work."
Q: So when is the best time to go?
"Between 5:45 and 7:30 is usually perfect. People are ready, houses are lit, and there’s still a nice energy on the streets. Any later, and it starts to feel intrusive. By 8 p.m., most families with young kids are winding down."
Q: Are there any other signs a house isn't up for trick-or-treaters?
"If the lights are off, respect that. No pumpkin, no decorations — it’s a no. Some people don’t celebrate, and that’s fine. I always tell my kids: no decorations, no knocking. The Trick or Treat map will make that easier though!"
Signs It’s Not the Right Time
Even if your child is bouncing off the walls, not every moment is trick-or-treating time. Here's when to hold back:
❌ Too Early (Before 5:30 PM)
- People may not be home from work
- Dinner time! No one wants the doorbell ringing mid-pasta
- Your kids might be the only ones out — awkward
❌ Too Late (After 8:30 PM)
- Most houses have run out of sweets
- Young kids are in bed
- Elderly neighbours may be unsettled
❌ On the Wrong Day (yes really!)
Some areas (especially in the US) have specific community-assigned days for trick or treating. Always double check — you don’t want to turn up on November 1st in costume when no one else is out.
What to Look For Instead
Want to make sure you’re welcome? These signs are a green light:
🎃 A lit pumpkin on the doorstep
💡 Porch lights turned on
👻 Decorations — from spooky spider webs to silly ghosts
🧺 Sweet bowls or signs saying "Trick or Treaters Welcome"
Tip: Encourage your kids to say thank you, even if the house gives raisins. Gratitude never goes out of style. You can add your thanks on the trick or treat map, by commenting on the stops you visited. You're welcome!
What About Teens?
Teens can still enjoy Halloween, but they walk a trickier line. Here's Rachel again:
"By the time they hit 13 or 14, my kids stopped going out — not because they didn't want to, but because they felt self-conscious. Some neighbours were fine with it, others gave them funny looks. If teens are going to trick or treat, I always tell them: wear a costume, be polite, and go early. It’s not just about age — it’s about attitude."
Community Norms Matter
If you’re new to an area or unsure what time is normal, ask around. Neighbours, local parenting groups, and even Facebook community pages often give you the vibe. Some neighbourhoods start early because they have lots of toddlers; others start late and go big.
Final Tips: Don’t Be That House or That Family
🙅♀️ Don’t leave your porch light on if you’re not giving out treats
🙅♂️ Don’t send kids out with no supervision (especially under age 10)
🙅♀️ Don’t forget that not everyone celebrates — and that’s okay
Instead, keep it fun, friendly, and festive. A little planning goes a long way in making Halloween magical for everyone.
You Might Also Like:
- What to Give Trick-or-Treaters That Won’t Rot Their Teeth
- Trick or Treat, Smell My Feet
- Weird Trick or Treat Traditions Around the World