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Halloween and candy go hand-in-hand—there’s no denying the excitement kids feel when they fill up their buckets with sweets! But as much as candy is a huge part of the fun, we all know that this season can easily lead to candy overload. Between Halloween-themed school parties, candy giveaways at sports and clubs, trunk-or-treat events, and the big night of trick-or-treating itself, kids often end up with an enormous stash of sweets.
While candy is still a treat to enjoy, handing out something a little different to trick-or-treaters can be a refreshing change. Non-candy treats are not only a healthier option but also can be really fun for kids! In fact, a unique surprise in their Halloween bag might stand out even more than another mini chocolate bar.
For more Halloween fun, check out our recipe for easy Halloween Bark or make these Halloween Styrofoam Prints.
Here are some creative and fun non-candy alternatives that will have trick-or-treaters excited this Halloween:
1. Glow Sticks or Glow Bracelets
These are always a hit with kids, especially on a night when they’re running around in the dark! Glow sticks, bracelets, or necklaces are fun, safe, and add a spooky glow to their costumes as they walk from house to house. Plus, they’re super affordable and come in bulk packs. Check out a bulk pack of glow sticks/bracelets here.
2. Stickers and Temporary Tattoos
Kids love showing off fun Halloween-themed stickers or temporary tattoos! You can find tons of options with ghosts, pumpkins, black cats, and other spooky designs. They’re perfect for a quick, easy treat that won’t add to the candy pile.
3. Mini Play-Doh
Small containers of Play-Doh are a great hands-on activity for kids and provide a fun break from all the sugar. These colorful, squishy tubs are perfect for creative kids who love to craft and build, and they come in mini sizes that are perfect for handing out.
4. Halloween-Themed Pencils and Erasers
While a pencil or eraser might not seem like the most exciting, kids can use them long after Halloween is over. Which means celebrating Halloween for even longer. Halloween-themed pencils make for a useful and festive surprise. Kids will love using them at school to show off their Halloween spirit!
5. Bubbles
Mini bottles of bubbles are another non-candy option that’s always a crowd-pleaser. Kids can take them outside and blow bubbles after Halloween is over, making it a treat they can enjoy in a whole different way.
6. Mini Toys
There’s a wide range of small Halloween toys you can hand out that are just as fun as candy, if not more. Think mini plastic spiders, vampire teeth, bouncy balls, or Halloween-themed slinkies. These tiny toys can entertain kids well beyond Halloween night.
7. Bookmarks
For a practical but fun option, Halloween-themed bookmarksv can be a hit for kids who love reading or need something new for their school books. Look for bookmarks with cute or spooky designs that will keep them excited about reading.
8. Slap Bracelets
Slap bracelets are always a fun and nostalgic item, and Halloween-themed slap bracelets are no exception. Kids will love the surprise of slapping these onto their wrists and showing them off to their friends.
9. Reusable Halloween Cups
Plastic reusable Halloween cups are both a festive and functional idea. Kids can use them for water, juice, or even as a holder for other fun Halloween trinkets. Plus, they’re a great way to avoid adding to the candy mountain!
Why Kids Will Love Non-Candy Treats
The beauty of offering non-candy treats is that it’s still something exciting and unexpected for trick-or-treaters. While they might already have a bucket full of sweets, a fun toy or cool accessory stands out and gives them something to play with or use for days after Halloween. Plus, it’s a great way to support kids who may have dietary restrictions, allergies, or just want a break from all the sugar!
So, while candy will always have its place in Halloween, passing out a fun, non-candy treat can make your house a favorite stop on the block this year. Whether it’s glow sticks, toys, or stickers, these treats offer a memorable and exciting alternative that kids will love.
Happy Halloween and happy trick-or-treating!
