If you've been to the grocery store, you know Halloween candy is already hitting the shelves. But the festivities will likely look very different this year.
Will there be trick-or-treating, costumes, or parties come October? In some places yes. In others, it's likely to be more subdued. Carly Schildhaus, with the National Confectioners Association, says the companies they promote are bracing for large candy sales as many families stay home.
“That’s optimism from manufacturers, retailers, and of course from consumers as well. And because people are looking for that little bit of normalcy and joy this year, they’re going to find creative ways to celebrate the season,” Schildhaus said.
In some places, like Los Angeles County, traditional door to door trick-or-treating is not recommended. Officials there said the same thing more than a hundred years ago, during the 1918 influenza pandemic.
“In other places, they’ll enjoy Halloween at home. Maybe trick-or-treating inside their house or in they’re backyard. Some from a distance with a Zoom costume party or a car parade. And a lot of things in between,” Schildhaus added.
One candy you won't find in stores this year: Peeps marshmallow treats. The custom Halloween candies are going on hiatus as a result of the pandemic.