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Trick or Treat?
updated: Nov 01, 2012, 8:31 AM

By Edhat Subscriber

Does anyone else feel like they had a low turnout of trick or treaters this year compared to last year?

Comments in order of when they were received | (reverse order)

COMMENT 337811	2012-11-01 08:35 AM
We ONLY had about ten and the youngest was probably fifteen. Where are all the little kids ??
COMMENT 337812P	2012-11-01 08:53 AM
No, if we had gotten even 1 that would have been 1 more then we got last year.
COMMENT 337813	2012-11-01 08:54 AM
As a parent it seemed that by the end of the night people were just trying to get rid of their candy stock. My kids kept coming back from houses saying, "I got three candies!" "I got four candies!" So much for one and done.
COMMENT 337817	2012-11-01 08:59 AM
Got my normal amount: 0.
COMMENT 337819	2012-11-01 09:01 AM
175 which is normal for my neighborhood
SBJULES	2012-11-01 09:02 AM
We had a couple more than last year. Coast village road has trick or treeting. I don't like it because then they don'd come to our house.
COMMENT 337822	2012-11-01 09:03 AM
About the same as last year, but down considerably from a decade ago. Perhaps the youngsters find the arduous trek too bothersome for the reduced-size candies that are now proffered. When I was a kid in the '50s we used to use a pillow case for the loot and were disappointed if we didn't get a nice big FULL-SIZED candy bar. Hit me with a BIG sugar rush! (Sometimes folks gave out pennies or fruit - ugh!) The town dentists were thrilled. Bah! Humbug to the tiny pea-sized confections. Oh, wait - wrong holiday.
COMMENT 337823P	2012-11-01 09:04 AM
We had about 10, most pretty young, but it's been dwindling in our neighborhood over the years. There are also neighborhoods where parents take their kids -- a friend of ours told us that when she bought her house, the owner had to disclose that to her! There was also a big "Light the Night" event at Girsh Park last night.
COMMENT 337831	2012-11-01 09:12 AM
The economics of trick or treaters..
COMMENT 337833	2012-11-01 09:14 AM
4 last year, zero this year
COMMENT 337837P	2012-11-01 09:23 AM
only two groups of kids in San Rogue, but we are on end of cul de sac. Down for sure.
COMMENT 337839	2012-11-01 09:26 AM
Lack of pumpkins causes hesitation.
COMMENT 337841	2012-11-01 09:27 AM
I think the kids are convening on two main areas, Lincoln/Hope and Argon Circle. I'm in the Lincoln/Hope area and had more than ever this year. Well over a 1000, maybe closer to 1500. Next year I'm going to figure out a way to count.
COMMENT 337845	2012-11-01 09:34 AM
We had way more this year than last, all under 12. I'd say 100, most in groups of 5-10... Ellwood area, not Daytona though (they get LOTS)
COMMENT 337848	2012-11-01 09:41 AM
depressed economy
COMMENT 337855P	2012-11-01 09:49 AM
@839, you're not wrong -- one funny little girl told us she wasn't sure we were participating because we didn't have any decorations. I assured her that we still had candy, and she turned and yelled to her waiting parents, "THEY HAVE CANDY!" Immediately after that this girl's sister (or twin in a different costume) showed up for candy.
COMMENT 337857P	2012-11-01 09:56 AM
Not sure, our neighborhood is westside and I took my kids out for 2 1/2 hours last night because there were so many houses giving out candy! Usually we drive to the area behind Peabody school where the entire neighborhood goes all out but glad we stayed close to home this year because it felt safer, people were thrilled to give candy to the kids and they got a ton! I do think that lots of families take their kids to the funner neighborhoods though than stay at home
COMMENT 337866	2012-11-01 10:16 AM
It felt like a lot fewer than last year, but I haven't tried to do an accounting. I think Halloween on a Wednesday was less popular than the Monday... 2014 will be a Friday! I think we'll double our candy stock for that year.
QUAD-LIX	2012-11-01 10:18 AM
We had one group of six trick-or-treaters whereas typically we get at least three groups, usually 5. I gave them Each 2 fun size candy bars but wish I would've given them each five because now I have leftovers I don't need.
COMMENT 337869P	2012-11-01 10:21 AM
had more older kids this year. Not as many kids over all. Our lighting was bad....will bump it up for next year. Didn't see the vans this year.
COMMENT 337870	2012-11-01 10:21 AM
855P: That's hilarious! And adorable. I didn't get any, which is normal for me. I can hear them all over the place, but we live in a condo down the driveway, so the front house gets all the kids because no parent wants to come down a driveway to a place you can barely see from the road. Stinks. I went all out decorating when we first moved in because I knew we were in a neighborhood with a bunch of kids, and I love Halloween. Didn't get one trick or treater. :( I seriously intend to ask neighbors about this when I finally purchase a house. Most people have things like fireplace, master suite, or at least 2 baths - my must have list includes a neighborhood that gets Trick or Treaters for Halloween. (Albeit, I'd be ok if it's not DogMom's numbers... Yikes! How much do you spend on candy?)
COMMENT 337871P	2012-11-01 10:25 AM
guilty pleasure thread hijack: how many of you will be shopping the after-halloween candy sales today? ;-)
COMMENT 337873	2012-11-01 10:31 AM
@871P - I will! For next years treats.
COMMENT 337880	2012-11-01 10:44 AM
As DogMom pointed out the Lincoln/Hope area was flooded again this year. We had over 1,000 kids and it could have been close to1,500. It is just a steady non stop stream of kids of all ages. It can almost get overwhelming at times.
COMMENT 337881	2012-11-01 10:47 AM
We used to get quite a few, but now in the past 5 or so years it seems we get none, which is a bummer.
COMMENT 337884	2012-11-01 10:53 AM
Wait. I'm supposed to believe people just give away candy for free? What's the catch?
COMMENT 337888	2012-11-01 10:57 AM
We hadn't gotten any trick or treaters for the last two years I have been here. There was a knock on the door during dinner and I had no clue it was two cute kids! I felt bad that we had no candy and we were busted because the door was open but the costumed cuties could not see us through the screen tinted door. That was a trick upon a trick. :( I wish I had given them some sugar free jello: on adkins and no sugar allowed, , I had several) but I did not think of it at that moment. Ick about jello AND gummy bears, worms, etc. I just found out what that gelatin stuff is made off, and I probably did not want to give it to kids, let alone myself, anymore.
CALI4NIADEE	2012-11-01 11:24 AM
We went to the Lincolnwood/Lincoln streets off Hope and it was hoppin' over there! I've never seen so many children going trick-or-treating in my life! The houses made it truly inviting however, the whole neighborhood got into it and one house even had treats for the adults (coffee, tea, cookies)!. At times it was a bit nerve-wracking to keep track of the 8 children in our group, but overall it was great fun. For the two posters that live there who stated they had between 1000-1500 kids, I totally believe it. I'd hate to think what your candy budgets are every year! Thanks for doing it though. We sure appreciated it.
ECHO	2012-11-01 11:28 AM
We've lived in our house for 3 years. The first year we left candy on a table on the porch, light on, while we went to a Halloween party in a different neighborhood. We took our kids trick or treating that year in the Garden street area so my husband and I could adore the beautiful homes. We got home and there were candy wrappers everywhere, bowl knocked over, half chewed candy. Figured the raccoons got to it. Last year we also went to a different neighborhood, didn't bother to leave candy out. This year we decided to stay in our neighborhood since there were several homes decorated. Again we left candy out. Only a few pieces were gone. I think almost all of the houses on our half of the block had no lights on and no one came down here. There were only about 7 houses on our block that gave out candy. Our daughter got a bucket full though, and she met a little friend along the way.
COMMENT 337910	2012-11-01 11:36 AM
I was down on State Street yesterday late afternoon and saw a lot of kids doing the trick or treating at the doors of shops. I can see how it's a good marketing thing for businesses to take part in that, but it seems a bit sterile to be fun for most kids.
COMMENT 337913	2012-11-01 11:41 AM
We never get any kids on the lower Riviera, there are no kids in our neighborhood, mostly older folks and out-of-town owners. There seemed to be a good number of kids on Milpas street trick or treating with the retailers. Fresh & Easy was handing out lots of fun size bars for the fun size kids.
MTNDRIVER	2012-11-01 11:49 AM
None here, none for the past five years or so, too dark and no sidewalks in the neighborhood.
SPAIN	2012-11-01 11:56 AM
Out here in Carpinteria near Linden I had 35 adorable children all dressed up in costumes. Fun.
COMMENT 337924P	2012-11-01 12:04 PM
Although we had significantly less children we had at least 10 adults trick or treating with groups of kids. The first one who said Trick or Treat actually got annoyed when I asked "why?" She said "hey i put a lot of work into this costume" I figured I would rather give it to them than risk the outcome of not. But it was very sad, that and the rudeness of some of the teenage girls who actually got annoyed if we didn't give them enough. One actually said "trick or treat bitches!!" yes that is how I was welcomed at my own front door. Halloween really sadden me this year.
AQUAHOLIC	2012-11-01 12:05 PM
We haven't had trick or treaters in 20 years, but we keep buying the candy, just in case ;-)
COMMENT 337929P	2012-11-01 12:09 PM
There were a reasonable number of kids out on Berkeley Rd. in Goleta near Kellogg School. But, not as many as in previous years. And, not nearly as many decorations, even at houses where the same owners had more decorations previous years. I guess we were the same; we carved pumpkins, but didn't bother to get all the Halloween decoration boxes down from the attic this year. Maybe it will pick up again in a couple years when Halloween gets closer to the weekend.
COMMENT 337931	2012-11-01 12:22 PM
Sure there were less,with all daily Stabbings Santa Barbara has and all the drivers blaming bikers and pedestrians for being in "their way" it's no wonder less parents would let their kids out. I love this town but there are a lot of things going down hill and and it's going to really start showing, especially around the holidays. Not trying to be a negative nancy just being honest.
COMMENT 337932	2012-11-01 12:27 PM
We had fewer this year in our San Roque neighborhood. Usually we have a rush from 5:30 to 6:30 with toddlers, then steady 'til 8pm when we do 'lights out'. This year our pumpkins were lit 'til 9pm - and we still have 4 bags of candy left!
COMMENT 337944	2012-11-01 12:49 PM
Montecito was hoppin' on CVR. Could hardly get down the street.I've never seen so many kids dressed up (children that is, not IV drunkards).
COMMENT 337950	2012-11-01 12:56 PM
932 - Just what my waistline needs - 4 bags of leftover candy. I'll be right over!
COMMENT 337960	2012-11-01 01:12 PM
We live off Argonne circle. We bought twice as much candy as last year and ran out before 8:30. Lots of older kids out this year (high school, I'd guess) too. It was a slower start, I recall the little ones starting around 6 last year, this year was around 6:45 before they really started trickling in. We had a blast! Can't wait for next year. :)
COMMENT 337964	2012-11-01 01:15 PM
I think the current political climate is pitting too many of us against each other making it harder to celebrate "communal" festivities that involve buying and giving gifts (candy) to total strangers (kids).
COMMENT 337971	2012-11-01 01:30 PM
Ellwood Beach Drive finally had trick or treaters last night! I was shocked, since this is my third Halloween here and I didn't have any kids the past 2 years. I even lit candles leading up to my door last year. Anyways, last night I had 3 knocks on my door which was delightful. I love seeing kids in their costumes, although I had to prompt them to say 'trick or treat' since all of them just stood at my door with an expectant look on their faces. :P
COMMENT 337972	2012-11-01 01:32 PM
On the Westside, it seemed like the high numbers were mainly on the well lit streets. The darker streets seemed empty.
COMMENT 337973P	2012-11-01 01:33 PM
We live in the Nogal / Cuna area (by Vieja Valley school). For the last few years there always seems to be a rush of about 50 to 70 Trick or Treaters - then blip - nothing. The street gets quiet. Our friends, just a block over say only one or two kids show up.. I remember when it was crazy solid kiddo's from about 6pm - 8:30pm
COMMENT 337980	2012-11-01 01:56 PM
Winchester Commons had WAY fewer kids this year! And my first visitor cried ( I always dress as a witch).
BULLSEYEB	2012-11-01 02:37 PM
Aquaholic, I thought we were the only ones who did that! Haha!
COMMENT 338021P	2012-11-01 02:56 PM
924P's comment struck a chord with me. Too many rude teens and a notable number of adults, some bizarrely holding their _babies_ who were in someone's idea of a costume, were the reason I opted out of participating a few years ago. I then lived in what was considered a targeted and "desirable" neighborhood, no longer do so it's likely moot now in any case.
COMMENT 338038	2012-11-01 03:26 PM
On a quiet street on the Westside we had 86 guests, which is on the low side of normal for us. Can't figure out if day of the week matters. I've kept track for several years, and we always get around 100, even on Friday or Saturday. In 2010 it was a Sunday and we had 160+, the most ever. Any suggestions on where I should take my leftover candy? Used to bring it to the office, but now I'm retired.
TISHERSELF	2012-11-01 03:33 PM
We had two haunted houses in our neighborhood, I think that brought a great number of kids to Universal Circle off of Patterson. Sounded very successful by the screams. =)
COMMENT 338083	2012-11-01 04:29 PM
Only 4 or 5 out in a small neighborhood in Goleta, it really bums me out. This is a great American Tradition that's just a lot of fun and it's starting to die. I don't see why though, I personally don't think it's more dangerous now then it was even 10 years ago. Every kid these days has a cellphone I don't see many kids getting snatched up when all the other kids have phones......
COMMENT 338090	2012-11-01 04:37 PM
924P and 021P - what is wrong with adults joining their kids? Do you think it is inappropriate for parents to dress up with their kids? Glad I wasn't in your neighborhood!
COMMENT 338123	2012-11-01 05:17 PM
Last year about 20 or 30 this year zero. I don't understand it, I didn't see any little kids going around the neighborhood. Did they all grow up in one year?
COMMENT 338142P	2012-11-01 05:50 PM
038, there is a teacher at La Cumbre Jr. High who will take the leftover candy to her son's preschool. They are boxing it up and sending to the troops with a note from the little ones.
COMMENT 338147	2012-11-01 06:07 PM
We had a blast on the Westside. Lots of kids and families. the teens came out later. Polite too, makes me feel good about our neighborhood and future generation.
COMMENT 338163P	2012-11-01 06:55 PM
090: You're right. There's absolutely nothing wrong with _joining_ one's kids--did it all the time when mine were younger--I'm talking about adults with large bags carrying two-year-old (or younger) kids in pajamas and token bunny ears or something. Ask around. I'm pretty sure that others know what I'm referring to.
COMMENT 338251P	2012-11-02 01:52 AM
I live in the Hope/Lincoln area and for the third year in a row I cruised along the streets with my dog just to watch all of the little kids and their parents. This year I went just before dark, so it was mainly the little ones walking around in a little bit of confusion, but they were plenty and NO where to park, even out on Hope where my driveway is which can be a problem for fire and other responders. The officials were ticketing the cars on Hope. The ones parking directly under the "No Parking Anytime " signs were in trouble. The past two years the dog and I went thru after dark and it was a magical place with witches, ghosts, and other scary things. One family puts their big screen TV out and shows a scary movie. My trick -or - treating was always a magical time, not a time to dress grossly and scare the little ones. P.S. This is also a great neighborhood to go by for Christmas decorations!
COMMENT 338252P	2012-11-02 02:11 AM
163. I got what you meant. The candy is supposed to be for kids in costume, not adults schlepping around their little babies. Everyone seems to be missing the point of why numbers are down at single family residences: There are a lot more businesses giving out candy. And there are a lot more Halloween events/ gatherings being held, where no one has to walk door-to-door and knock on a stranger's door, AND there is entertainment. I think the neighborhoods that are getting 100s of kids are mostly where the Hispanic apartment livers dwell, or near to there. The Caucasians like to jump into their cars (or minivans) and take their kids to venues such as the big Pirate Ship up on the Mesa or to neighborhoods where they know the houses are closer together and the word is out that the candy is plentiful. Back when I was a kid, you put on your costume, grabbed your Safeway bag, stepped out your front door and took it from there. Now the kids are being chaperoned and supervised and it is more about what is convenient for the adults, what is more entertaining for the kids and where there is the biggest and quickest pay-off for the least amount of effort.
MERIDEE	2012-11-02 06:54 AM
I live on a cul-de-sac off of Grove in San Roque. We got more kids than usual-probably between 60 and 80. Loved it all!!! I try and give out a variety of things. Some neighbors have great extensive decorations, and others of us decorate some.
COMMENT 338265	2012-11-02 06:58 AM
YeS we noticed less . Kids dont venture onto our dark block so this year we gave out candy from a friend's porch on State/Mission- VERY low turnout. I know a lot of kids so i asked them where they went: all of them got driven over 10 blocks plus to Argonne Circle to join the masses there. The old style of trick or treating in your own hood is dying out! Hey, Argonne Circle: seems like it's everyone over to your place next year!!! Wow! I wonder if ALL the Argonne resIdents are down with Halloween? Guess it sucks for them if they aren't!
MADMAX	2012-11-02 07:59 AM
On Mesa off Calle Malaga only 2 when we used to get 30-40. And I have more decorations than ever! Bummer.
COMMENT 338298P	2012-11-02 08:22 AM
Calle Real shopping center hosted a candy-giveaway from 3 to 6; we live nearby, had very few kids at the door.
COMMENT 338301	2012-11-02 08:27 AM
We live in Hope Ranch Annex and we had tons of trick or treaters. I love seeing the little tots each year. Now the babies from years past are in junior high and they still come and say hello, as are the parents. It is a very social event and very friendly. And for those that never get trick-or-treaters, but still buy the candy, I think it is a great excuse to buy your favorite treat and hope no one rings your doorbell.
ESL TEACHER	2012-11-02 09:20 AM
Here in San Roque near Peabody School we had many more children than in previous years and I ran out of candy.
CORKY	2012-11-02 09:38 AM
Hard to say, but seemed more large groups of preteens and teens. Had candy left over, so felt guilty for not giving out more than one of the little bars/Reece things. No one after eight.
COMMENT 338465	2012-11-02 12:59 PM
Definitely down this year and younger. No more of the cheeky older kids complaining about what you hand out. This group was young, happy, cheerful and appreciative. That was a nice change from years past, where there was more run, smash and grab attitude.
COMMENT 338886	2012-11-03 07:57 PM
Less than usual, I'd say. After reading many of these comments, I think that the migration of kids from their own neighborhoods to places like Argonne Circle or Lincoln/Hope is a root cause of the low numbers in many "regular" neighborhoods. There is too much mobility, and the use of Facebook-type communications cause kids to collect in wealthier neighborhoods where the likelihood of better bounty is to be had. Add to that the saturation of afternoon business candy giveaways, and the lovely, time-honored neighborhood tradition fades away. Kind of sad.

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