Halloween is a holiday I will hold special in my heart, no matter how old I get, especially because it is so versatile, giving kids and adults opportunities to have fun in their own way.

From buying or making one’s own costume to attending festivals, haunted houses or simply indulging in a movie for the season – Halloween truly offers something for everyone. However, one of the biggest traditions most people think of when it comes to Halloween is trick-or-treating.

For those who celebrate Halloween, trick-or-treating is a staple in their childhood. Dressing up in a costume of your liking and walking from house to house with friends and family not too far behind is a core memory. The best part is the sweet treats or toys that would be collected from these efforts.

Sadly, I believe that the opportunity for trick-or-treating is very short-lived, as many of us stop around ages 13 to 15, when we are considered “too old” to indulge in something meant for kids. Yet some still do trick-or-treat despite being older – does this mean college students can still trick-or-treat too?

I can see both sides of the argument. For one, dressing up and getting free sweet treats isn’t hurting anyone. However, this tradition is more meant for children to enjoy themselves.

As much as I can’t blame anyone for wanting free candy, regardless of age, this is a holiday and an event specifically for kids to run around and take in the scenery, while the older individuals can participate in their own festivities.

I can understand the concern that trick-or-treating is being overrun by adults, as seen with hobbies like Pokémon card collecting, a hobby that started among children and friends with the occasional adult fan. It was then ruined by scalpers – people who buy cards in bulk and leave nothing for the actual intended audience.

There is a valid concern, but also, as I said before, trick-or-treating is very enjoyable no matter what age you are. Free candy isn’t the only benefit, as being able to stroll around the neighborhood in costume and look at all the decorations with friends truly makes it an experience to remember.

It may be childish to indulge in, but I believe we all have an inner child that simply wants to enjoy ourselves. There’s no shame in wanting to score a few treats in costume, but it’s also important to be considerate of the children the holiday is actually for.

So I say, go knock yourself out and have fun. Dress up and get your free candy – just don’t ruin it for the children and leave most of the candy for them. If you still think it’s childish, that’s okay. Halloween is my favorite holiday for that reason – no matter what you think, there’s always something for you to have fun.