Trick or Treating
Halloween isn’t complete without Trick or Treating (if you are a kid or a parent, of course). It’s an activity that transforms neighborhoods into a candy-fueled wonderland of costumes, giggles & ghoulish. As the father of a 15 month old, I am very much looking forward to getting him an awesome costume and taking him on his first trick or treating adventure.
Why is Trick or Treating Fun?
Trick or Treating is a perfect storm of excitement, creativity & community that appeals to all ages. The bag of candy you end up with is great, but it is really the experience that makes it so awesome.
The Thrill of the Hunt: There’s an undeniable rush in ringing a stranger’s doorbell, shouting “Trick or Treat!” and watching the door creak open to reveal an assortment of candy.
Costumes: Dressing up lets you escape into fantasy. Kids might choose to be witches, pirates, a super hero or anything they can come up with. Families can also coordinate themes like a zombie apocalypse or a Disney squad. It’s an easy way to express yourself when you are a kid.
Sweet Rewards (and Sharing): After a fun night of trick or treating, kids get to take home a huge bag of treasure. Sorting through your candy afterward, trading Skittles for Snickers and savoring the first bite is pure bliss.
Building Bonds and Memories: Trick or Treating is a great way to bond as a family. Parents reminisce about their own childhood escapades, neighborhoods light up with jack-o’-lanterns and porch parties and everyone gets a break from the everyday grind. Studies even show it promotes social skills in kids through polite interactions.
The Best Ways to Go Trick or Treating
Plan Your Route Wisely: Scout your neighborhood in advance using apps like Nextdoor or apps like TreatMap to find streets with high participation. Aim for 1-2 hours to avoid fatigue, starting around 6PM when it’s dusk but not too dark. Stick to well-lit areas with sidewalks for safety.
Gear Up Smartly: Dress for the weather. Bay Area evenings can be foggy and chilly, so layer under costumes. Use glow sticks or LED lights for visibility and opt for comfortable shoes. Bring reusable bags or pillowcases for hauls. A wagon can also be a huge help with kids who ended up getting tired out.
Safety First: Go in groups of at least 3-4 for supervision. Teach kids to stay on porches, say “thank you” & inspect candy later. It is also a good idea to bring along some water.
Where Are the Best Places to Go Trick or Treating in the San Francisco Bay Area?
There are lots of good (and safe) areas to go trick or treating on Halloween in the Bay Area. Focus on areas known for decorations and safety. Always check local guidelines for any restrictions.
Noe Valley (San Francisco): This charming hillside are is a Trick or Treating hotspot with Victorian homes glowing under string lights. Expect fairy-tale setups, like giant spiderwebs and fog machines. You can also go to 24th Street’s shops for hot cocoa and a snack afterwards. It is family-friendly and walkable.
Avila Street: This amazing area in the Marina goes all out for Halloween and arguably the best trick or treating spot in the Bay. The residents go all out on decorations and it is extremely safe for the kids.
Rockridge (Oakland): College Avenue is a great spot in the East Bay. It’s got a bohemian flair with artisan candy stations and live music pop-ups. Nearby parks are great for a break.
Old Palo Alto (Palo Alto): Streets like Waverley and Hamilton are charming with mansions competing in decor contests. You can usually find some synchronized light shows and impressive displays.
Alamo Square (San Francisco): Home to the Painted Ladies, this iconic park area is perfect for trick or treating with Victorian ghosts and group photo ops. The flat terrain is good for toddlers and nearby Hayes Valley offers dessert detours.
Danville Green (Danville): A safe neighborhood with big displays like haunted hayrides, foggy lawns and themed neighborhoods like “Monster Mash Lane.” await you in Danville. Wide streets and community events make it ideal for larger groups and free shuttles are sometimes offered.