“ Trick or Treating “    

The history of Trick Or Treating can be traced back to the early celebrations of All Soul's Day in Britain. "Souling" took place on November 2nd in the 800's, the poor would go begging & the housewives would give them special treats called soul cakes or offerings, especially blessings of prosperity & protection against bad luck. 

Those who begged for the soul cakes were asking for prayers for the deceased. Practical jokes & pranks were played upon the houses that did not participate. 

The visitation of fairies occurred as well, & treats were left on the porch in order to gain favor with the "wee folk" & to avoid similar fates to a household. This was called "going-a-souling", & the soulers would promise to say a prayer for the dead. 

Over time the custom changed & the town's children became the beggars. As they went from house to house they would be given apples, buns, & money. During the Pioneer days of the American West, the housewives would give the children candy to keep from being tricked. The children would shout "Trick or Treat!".