Which children's activity involves wearing costumes to collect candy door-to-door?

Which children’s activity involves wearing costumes to collect candy door-to-door? Trick-or-treating. On Halloween, participants dress up, visit homes, and ask for sweets by saying “trick or treat,” usually on October 31.

The custom has roots in Scottish and Irish guising, a tradition recorded at least as far back as the 16th century. Children went from house to house in costume, performed a song, poem, or small prank, and received food or treats in return. The modern North American practice developed from these older customs.

The phrase “trick or treat” does not mean children must actually perform a trick. “Trick” is a playful threat of mischief if no treat is offered. Homes that welcome visitors commonly leave porch lights on, while a dark porch often signals that the household is not participating.