Tips for Making Halloween Fun and Inclusive for All

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Halloween is one of the most exciting times of the year for kids. Costumes, decorations, trick-or-treating — it’s all part of the magic. But for children with food allergies, the holiday can bring more worry than fun. Many of the candies given out on Halloween contain common allergens like peanuts, tree nuts, milk, soy, gluten or eggs. Even treats that look safe may be made in facilities that also process allergens, raising the risk of accidental exposure.

The good news? Families, schools and neighborhoods are finding creative ways to make Halloween safer and more inclusive. From allergy-friendly snacks to fun nonfood goodies, there are plenty of options so every child can join in the fun without fear.

Why Food Allergies Make Halloween Tricky

Food allergies affect about one in 13 children in the U.S., which means nearly two kids in every classroom live with them. For these children, Halloween can be stressful. Most candy is processed with nuts, dairy or gluten, and ingredient labels aren’t always clear. Add in the excitement of the night, and it can be tough for kids to stop and ask, “Is this safe for me to eat?”

That’s why it’s so important for parents, caregivers and communities to think about safe alternatives. When you have allergy-friendly treats on hand — or even better, nonfood treats — you help children feel included and take away the fear of missing out.

Allergy-Friendly Treat Ideas

Safer Snack Options

If you’d like to hand out edible treats, there are several brands that specialize in allergy-friendly sweets. Always check the label for your child’s specific allergies, but here are some popular choices:

• Enjoy Life: Free from the top 14 allergens, including nuts, dairy, soy and gluten.
• YumEarth: Organic candies and lollipops free from major allergens.
• Free2b: Chocolate treats made without peanuts, tree nuts, gluten or dairy.

In addition to specialty candies, you can also offer healthier snacks that kids love, such as the following:

• Fruit snacks or dried fruit: Individual packs of fruit leather or raisins.
• Mini popcorn bags: A crunchy, fun alternative that feels like a treat.
• Rice crispy treats: Made with allergy-safe marshmallows.
• Apple or pumpkin chips: Seasonal, healthy and easy to package individually.

These options allow kids with allergies to enjoy a sweet or crunchy snack without worrying about hidden ingredients.

Nonfood Treats

One of the best ways to make Halloween safe for all children is to skip food altogether. Nonfood treats are fun and memorable and last longer than candy. They also tie into the Teal Pumpkin Project, an initiative started by Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) to promote inclusion for kids with food allergies. Homes that display a teal-colored pumpkin signal to families that they are offering nonfood goodies.

Some nonfood ideas include the following:

• Glow sticks or glow bracelets
• Halloween stickers or temporary tattoos
• Spider rings, vampire teeth or bouncy balls
• Pencils, erasers or mini coloring books
• Small containers of bubbles

Kids usually love these just as much as candy, and they can enjoy them without the risk of an allergic reaction.

Tips for Parents and Caregivers

• Check labels carefully: Even if a snack looks safe, holiday versions may be made in a different factory with cross-contamination risks.
• Bring a safe stash: If your child goes trick-or-treating, swap out unsafe candy with allergy-friendly options you’ve prepared ahead of time.
• Talk with your child: Role-play how they can politely say “No thank you” to unsafe treats and ask if something is allergy safe.
• Join the Teal Pumpkin Project: Encourage neighbors and schools to participate so kids with allergies know they have safe options waiting for them.
• Celebrate with activities: Focus on costume contests, pumpkin carving, scavenger hunts or Halloween crafts to keep the fun going without relying on food.

At its heart, Halloween is about community and fun. By offering allergy-friendly treats or nonfood alternatives, you’re helping children with allergies feel seen and included. For kids, that sense of belonging is just as sweet as any candy.

If you’re handing out goodies this year, consider putting a teal pumpkin on your porch and stocking up on a mix of safe snacks and nonfood treats. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference for families managing food allergies.

After all, every child deserves to enjoy Halloween night — without the fear that a piece of candy could spoil the fun.