Trick-or-treating is a staple activity that many of us did when we were growing up. Getting all dressed up in our favorite characters from our favorite things, this was the night we lived for. But as we get older, it fades away from us as we go to do more mature activities, such as throw Halloween parties or hang with friends and watch horror movies.   

With college bringing in multiple people from all walks of life together, many lived completely different lives. With some people getting the opportunity to experience this staple activity and some not, this raises the question: Why isn’t trick-or-treating an option on campus?  

Opponents of trick-or-treating on campus point out the practical concerns that come along with this tradition being on campus. A major one is logistics. With hundreds of students living in dorms, it could be difficult to ensure safety and security during this event. Campuses would need to find a way to keep the event organized, ensuring that only students participate, and outsiders don’t take advantage.  

Additionally, not every student may feel comfortable with others knocking on their doors or coming into their hallways. There’s also the question of whether there would even be enough interest among students, who often prefer other activities like parties or concerts to celebrate Halloween.  

On the other hand, there are multiple reasons to consider introducing trick-or-treating on campus, even in a modified form. College is stressful, with students juggling deadlines, exams, and their own personal challenges all at once. A fun, nostalgic event like trick-or-treating could offer a mental health break, allowing students to relax and enjoy themselves in a lighthearted way.  

Unlike other college Halloween activities, trick-or-treating offers an alternative for students who may not enjoy large parties or drinking.  

Additionally, trick-or-treating could serve as a valuable tool for building community. College students often struggle with loneliness, especially those who are far from home, and with a campus full of multiple walks of life, this could be a great opportunity to engage with other communities.  

If safety and organization are the main issues, our university could implement some practical solutions. Trick-or-treating events could be confined to specific hours, with candy stations set up in common areas, such as Village Park or Lawrence Hall lobby, rather than in or outside of individual dorm rooms. Resident Educators (REs) or student organizations could also help coordinate the event, ensuring that everything runs smoothly.  

Ultimately, whether or not trick-or-treating becomes a reality on campus depends on student interest and logistical planning. While some may prefer to leave the tradition in childhood, others believe that it can evolve into a new kind of celebration, fit for college life.  

With creativity and planning, Point Park could introduce an event that brings people together, creates memories, and offers a much-needed break from the demands of student’s academic lives. Whether through in-the-dorm candy bowls, supervised locations on campus, or another method not mentioned, there’s room to explore how our campus and others around us might rekindle the magic of Halloween.