Catherine Luzzi ’26
Halloween this year is undoubtedly going to be different than most. However, the traditional Halloween that we usually celebrate wasn’t always like this. In the years leading up to the Great Depression, pranks and mischief on Halloween were becoming an annual tradition. The Great Depression worsened the problem, with harmless pranks soon turning dangerous. Assaults, violence, and vandalism led adults to find creative ways to keep kids and teens out of trouble. Trick-or-treating was the main distraction they used. Soon after, America became engaged in World War II. The rationing of sugar during the war meant that candy could not be produced. After the war ended, candy companies took advantage of the Baby Boom and people’s long-awaited need for sweets. According to History.com, trick-or-treating became more popular in the United States in the 1950s. The companies used Halloween and trick-or-treating for their new marketing plan, and the holiday’s popularity only grew from there. Last year, according to The Balance, Americans spent $8.78 billion on Halloween candy. So even though this October 31st will be different, keep in mind the importance and history behind it!