In America (and elsewhere?) we have a tradition of trick-or-treating where on Halloween or the night before kids go around the neighborhood in a costume, knock on doors, and get candy. It’s a lot of fun.
But I was well into adulthood before I learned that not all places have kids tell jokes before they get candy. Apparently it’s only the city I grew up in that they do that! Not even neighboring cities do it.
That sounds exhausting for both the kids and the adults. And the parents taking the kids who have to listen to the same fucking joke every couple of minutes.
“Trick or treat!” is faster and easier. Especially when there’s a line of 20 kids at your house.
Also, pro tip: don’t give candy, order a bunch of cheap toys, temporary tattoos, etc. from a site like Oriental Trading Co. instead. Even the teenagers love them. We’re one of the favorite Halloween houses in the neighborhood. Light-up rings and glow-in-the-dark high bounce balls are especially loved.
We’ve heard, “yes! It’s the toy house!” multiple times over the years.