Halloween is almost here and with it the tradition of trick or treating.
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Following the success of the past two years, Gloucester’s Belle Mulder is putting the call out for those interested in being a part of the tradition to put a balloon on their mailbox. It’s a way of signifying who’s in and who’s out to ensure children don’t knock on the doors of people who don’t want to be disturbed.
The tradition isn’t one that is necessarily associated with Australia, however it seems to be gaining popularity, with some residential areas decorating their homes and stocking up on lollies.
Trick or treating involves putting on a costume and knocking on your neighbour’s door with the hope of receiving goodies.
Typically, trick or treating takes place after dark when the street lights come on, however in Gloucester, children can be spotted in costume circulating the neighbourhood at little earlier; with some having taken part in the trick or treating for the past few years.
Some Australians are really getting into the spirit of Halloween and decorating their homes in much the same way as for the Christmas season. Except, instead of Santa Claus, reindeer and tinsel, Halloween homes are dressed with witches, zombies and tombstones.
Decorations and trick or treating candy has become more readily available in Australian supermarkets and department stores, making it easier for residents to get into the spirit.
Popular costumes for children include superheros like Superman or Wonder Woman, cartoon characters like the Incredibles, or even the classics like witches and ghosts. Adults also get into the spirit by dressing up for a Halloween party which may include a haunted house or creatively decorated scary cupcakes.
As a child, one of my favourite Halloween events, other than collecting a pillow case full of candy, was carving a jack-o'-lantern. Not only could we make a scary face to be lit by candle, but roasting up the pumpkin seeds with a touch of salt was a great snack.
So if you want to be involved, tie a balloon to your mailbox to let the children know; but don’t feel like you have to hand out chocolates or lollies, I had neighbours who liked to give out apples!
Anne Keen
Anne has been a journalist with the ACM (Australia Community Media) since 2016. She primarily works at the Gloucester Advocate but also contributes to the Manning River Times.
Anne has been a journalist with the ACM (Australia Community Media) since 2016. She primarily works at the Gloucester Advocate but also contributes to the Manning River Times.
