Trunk-or-treating

Trunk-or-treating is a form of Halloween tradition which often serves as an alternative to trick-or-treating in the United States and Canada. Beginning in the 1990s, it usually involves candy or other treats being handed out of or taken from the trunks of vehicles, typically on Halloween (All Hallow's Eve), although this tradition is also held in the days preceding or following the annual celebration on October 31. It is intended to be a safer alternative to trick-or-treating.^[1]

A trunk-or-treating event held at a church in Darien, Illinois, U.S.

History

A vehicle involved in trunk-or-treating at the Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point in the U.S. state of North Carolina

This annual tradition was begun in the 1990s by Christian Churches and their associated groups as a "fall festival" for an alternative to trick-or-treating in churches.^[A] Though Halloween (All Hallow's Eve) and its religious observances originate in the Christian tradition, being apart of the season of Allhallowtide, certain parents have expressed concern about modern-day revelry in its popular celebration, such as the gore that has become associated with it in the latter part of the 20th century.^[5][6][7][8] Additionally, trunk-or-treating avoids street crime or car danger that may be associated with normal trick-or-treating.^[1][9] While trick-or-treating involves going to homes or buildings to receive candy, trunk-or-treating is associated with candy being handed out or served from the trunks of decorated vehicles.^[10][3][4]

The etiquette of trunk-or-treating has led to the tradition also being called "Halloween tailgating", after the practice of handing out or serving candy from the trunks of vehicles.^[11][12] Trunk-or-treating has become increasingly popular in the 21st century since originating from Center Point, Alabama, where the first such event was initially held.^[3][11] Some churches and church leaders have seen the popularity of Halloween celebrations as an opportunity for religious and cultural engagement with the Gospel.^[13] Apart from Christian churches, cities or other community groups have sponsored trunk-or-treat events.^[14]

Etiquette

Trunk-or-treating is typically held on Halloween and Halloween night, although it can also be hosted in the days before or after the annual celebration (cf. Allhallowtide).^[15] Trunk-or-treat locations vary, although they are often held at churches or schools, in large parking lots, or at car dealerships.^[3][11] The vehicles that candy is collected from are also usually covered with Halloween decorations.^[15][16]