The real spirit of Halloween for moments of connection and shared experiences.

Turn Halloween into a month-long celebration, building fun connections, sharing experiences, helping others and of course, some treats along the way. The core of my story is that my kids and I built a fantasy world where Halloween is central to a massive holiday economy. One of the functional components is human children choosing to send their candy to the Halloween Goblins.  

After the kids return home amped up with the adventures of the night, they can enjoy as much candy as they want (or that you are comfortable with), and then they bundle up their haul and give it to you to “send” to the Halloween Goblins.

Do not make light of this moment.

Instead, try to have a (relatively) solemn ceremony during which they give you their candy. From this point forward, they should have no more candy, and there shouldn’t be any more Halloween candy in the house.

Candy Disposal Do’s

  • Take the Candy to Work

    Leave it in the break room or put a bowl at your desk. Trust me, it won’t be there long.

  • Donate it to a charity

    See our list of organizations accepting candy donations.

  • Throw it Away

    You have permission to let go of any guilt about waste and landfills.

Candy Disposal Don’ts

  • Don't Hide It

    Your kids are hardwired to sniff out candy. They will find it.

  • Don't Give it Back

    They made a deal and are trusting that you maintain your end of it.

  • Don't Look for Suggestions

    “Use candy in baking” or “make snack mixes with it” are both terrible ideas.

Candy Donation Ideas

  • Local Food Banks and Shelters

    Contact your nearest food bank or shelter to inquire about candy donations.

  • Nursing Homes and Senior Centers

    Residents may enjoy receiving sweet treats.

  • Donate Candy to the Troops

    Many organizations across the country collect candy to send to deployed troops, veterans, and military families.

  • Police and Fire Stations

    Often welcome candy as a gesture of appreciation for their service.

  • Schools and After-School Programs

    Some accept candy for classroom rewards or community events.