Halloween is a time for fun, creativity, and community—and we want to make sure everyone can celebrate safely and inclusively.
The “Happy Halloween for All” initiative helps residents recognize what teal, blue, and purple pumpkins mean when trick-or-treating, while also sharing helpful safety tips for families, neighbours, and drivers.
Whether you’re handing out treats or heading door-to-door, a few simple steps can help make Halloween enjoyable for everyone in our community!
🏠 Inclusive Pumpkins: What the Colours Mean
Coloured pumpkins are a simple way to make Halloween more welcoming for all children and families. Learn what each colour represents and how you can participate in creating a safe, inclusive experience for every trick-or-treater.
- A teal pumpkin on your doorstep means you’re offering non-food treats such as glow sticks or small toys for children with food allergies. It can also mean you have allergy-friendly candy available.
- A teal candy bucket lets others know that the child has food allergies, helping ensure a safe and inclusive Halloween for all.
- A blue pumpkin on your doorstep shows your support for children on the autism spectrum, helping promote awareness and inclusion.
- A blue candy bucket indicates that the child is on the autism spectrum and may not say “Trick or treat!” or “Thank you.” Patience, kindness, and understanding ensure every child enjoys the evening.
- A purple pumpkin on your doorstep means that someone in the household lives with epilepsy, helping raise awareness and understanding.
- A purple candy bucket indicates that the child has epilepsy, reminding others to be considerate and supportive.
🚸 Safety Tips for Trick-or-Treaters and Neighbours
From teaching kids to stay visible and aware of their surroundings to making the candy handout accessible for all, these safety reminders help ensure a fun and worry-free night for everyone celebrating Halloween in our community.
Keep your children safe by teaching them to stay visible and be aware of their surroundings. Here are some more tips:
- Accompany young children while trick-or-treating until they’re old enough to go with friends.
- Give each child a flashlight to help them stay visible.
- Stick to well-lit areas and visit only homes with lights on.
- Remind kids to look both ways and cross streets safely.
Be cautious with candy and toys. Examine treats and toys before giving them to children. Help keep them safe with these other tips:
- Remind children not to eat any treats until an adult has checked them.
- Avoid handing out treats that may pose chocking hazards.
- Inspect toys or novelty items for small parts and keep them away from children under three.
Some children may have difficulties navigating inclines, stairs, etc. Consider placing your treat-or-treating station at an accessible location, amongst these other tips:
- Keep paths and driveways well lit and free of obstacles.
- Set up your treat-or-treating station at the end of your driveway or inside your garage.
- Avoid using strobe lights or loud, high-pitched sounds that could startle others.