When Is Trick Or Treating in 2024: A Complete Guide for Halloween

Trick-or-treating is one of the most anticipated events of the year, especially for families and children. As Halloween approaches, many are eager to know when they can start collecting candy and enjoying the spooky festivities. The timing of trick-or-treating can vary depending on location, local traditions, and even weather conditions. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about when trick-or-treating happens in 2024.

What Time Does Trick-or-Treating Start?

In general, trick-or-treating begins around sunset, as it gets dark earlier in the fall. However, the exact time depends on where you live. For example, in cities like Columbus, Ohio, trick-or-treating typically starts at 6 p.m. and ends at 8 p.m. on October 31st. Other areas may have different schedules, so it’s always a good idea to check with your local community or town hall for specific times.

When Is Trick-or-Treating in the United States?

While the date of Halloween remains the same every year—October 31—the actual hours for trick-or-treating can vary from city to city. Here are some examples:

Atlanta: Typically between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Boston: Between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Buffalo: Between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Charleston: Between 5:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Chicago: As early as 3 p.m. and ends at 7 p.m.
Cincinnati: Between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Cleveland: Between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Dallas: Between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Denver: Around 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Houston: Generally around 5 p.m., with quiet streets by 9 p.m.
Indianapolis: Around 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Los Angeles: Begins around dusk and goes until 8:30 p.m.
Milwaukee: Between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.
Philadelphia: Between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Phoenix: Between 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Pittsburgh: Between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.
New York City: No official information released yet.
San Antonio: Younger kids start as early as 4:30 p.m., while older kids wait until 7 p.m.
Seattle: Around 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Washington, D.C.: Between 5:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Are There Any Exceptions?

Some towns may adjust their trick-or-treating hours based on weather conditions or special events. For instance, if there’s a forecast of rain or strong winds, some communities might move the event to a later time or even reschedule it. It’s also possible that some neighborhoods may choose to hold a trunk-or-treat event instead of traditional door-to-door trick-or-treating.

How Can I Find the Exact Time for My Area?

If you’re unsure about the trick-or-treating times in your area, there are several ways to find out:

Check Local News Outlets: Many news stations provide updates on trick-or-treating schedules for their communities.
Visit Your Town’s Official Website: Some municipalities post their trick-or-treating hours online.
Join a Community Facebook Group: These groups often share updates and reminders about local events.
Use a Sunset Calculator: This tool can help you estimate when it will get dark in your area, which can give you an idea of when trick-or-treating might begin.

What Are the Best Times to Go Trick-or-Treating?

While the exact time can vary, here are some general guidelines:

Younger Kids (Under 12): They tend to go out right after sunset, especially if they have earlier bedtimes.
Older Kids and Teens: Usually start trick-or-treating closer to 7 or 8 p.m. and may continue until most porch lights are off.
Families with Children: It’s best to go out in the late afternoon or early evening to ensure safety and maximize candy collection.

Are There Any Safety Tips for Trick-or-Treating?

Safety should always be a top priority during Halloween. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Supervise Young Children: Especially those under 12, make sure they are with an adult.
Use Flashlights: As it gets darker, having a flashlight can help with visibility and safety.
Have a Cellphone: In case of an emergency, it’s important to have a way to contact help.
Wear Bright Costumes: This increases visibility and makes it easier for drivers to see you.
Check Candy Before Eating: Make sure all treats are sealed and safe to consume.

What If Halloween Falls on a Weekend?

This year, Halloween falls on a Friday, which means some families may have more time to celebrate. While trick-or-treating is still scheduled for October 31, some communities may extend their hours or host additional events over the weekend. You can also participate in a trunk-or-treat event or a local festival to kick off the Halloween season early.

Final Thoughts

Trick-or-treating is a beloved tradition that brings families together and creates lasting memories. Whether you’re handing out candy or heading out with your kids, knowing the best times to go can help you make the most of the holiday. By checking local guidelines, using a sunset calculator, and staying informed, you can ensure a fun and safe Halloween for everyone involved.

Author Section

Author: Emily Johnson

Title/Role: Lifestyle and Family Contributor

Credentials: Emily is a seasoned writer with a focus on family life, holidays, and community events. She has written extensively on Halloween traditions and family-friendly activities.

Profile Link: Emily Johnson Profile

Trusted Sources

Internal Links

Call to Action

Stay updated with the latest news and tips for Halloween 2024. Explore today’s headlines and prepare for a spook-tacular celebration!

URL Slug

when-is-trick-or-treating-2024

Image Optimization

Schema Markup

<script type="application/ld+json">
{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "Article",
  "headline": "When Is Trick Or Treating in 2024: A Complete Guide for Halloween",
  "description": "Everything you need to know about when trick-or-treating happens in 2024, including local times, safety tips, and how to find the best schedule for your area.",
  "datePublished": "2024-10-31",
  "dateModified": "2024-10-31",
  "author": {
    "@type": "Person",
    "name": "Emily Johnson"
  },
  "publisher": {
    "@type": "Organization",
    "name": "US Trending News",
    "logo": {
      "@type": "ImageObject",
      "url": "https://www.example.com/logo.png"
    }
  },
  "image": "https://www.example.com/halloween-image.jpg"
}
</script>

Featured Snippet Optimization

Answer: Trick-or-treating typically starts around sunset, with most communities beginning between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. on October 31. However, times can vary by location, so it’s best to check local guidelines or community resources for the exact schedule in your area.