Halloween is one of the most exciting nights of the year for kids, but it’s also one of the most sugar-filled. While a little candy can be part of the fun, too much can lead to stomach aches, energy crashes, and long-term health concerns. Continue reading to find 10 healthy alternatives to candy for Halloween fun!
We’re all about helping families enjoy meaningful traditions, without sacrificing health. So whether you’re handing out treats, planning a school party, or organizing a community event, here are 10 creative ways to make Halloween healthier, happier, and just as fun.
🎃 Why Look Beyond Candy?
According to the CDC, children in the U.S. consume far more added sugar than recommended, especially around holidays like Halloween. Over time, this can contribute to weight gain, diabetes, dental issues, and behavioral concerns.
But the solution isn’t to cancel Halloween, it’s to get creative with alternatives that are still exciting, tasty, and memorable.
🍎 10 Healthier Halloween Handouts Kids Will Love
These options are kid-friendly, budget-conscious, and school-safe:
- Mini Pretzel Bags – Crunchy and satisfying with a salty twist.
- Fruit Leather or Dried Fruit Packs – Naturally sweet without added sugar.
- Popcorn Bags – Low in sugar, fun to decorate with Halloween stickers.
- Granola Bars (Low Sugar) – A more filling treat that still feels like a snack.
- Applesauce Pouches – A no-mess hit, especially with young kids.
- 100% Juice Boxes – Skip the soda and hand out real fruit juice instead.
- Trail Mix (Nut-Free) – A combo of seeds, raisins, and whole grains.
- Mandarins with Jack-o’-Lantern Faces – Draw on the peel with a marker for a festive twist.
- Yogurt-Covered Raisins – Sweet and creamy, but gentler than chocolate.
- Sugar-Free Gum or Mints – Great for older kids and better for teeth.
🕸️ Want to Skip Food Altogether?
Non-food treats are becoming more popular, especially for kids with food allergies or families trying to avoid sugar. The Teal Pumpkin Project promotes giving out non-food items to ensure all children can participate safely. Here are some fun alternatives:
- Glow sticks and bracelets
- Mini bubbles, slime, or Play-Doh tubs
- Stickers, spider rings, or temporary tattoos
- Halloween pencils, erasers, or notepads
- Bouncy balls or mini puzzle toys
These items can be found at dollar stores or online in bulk for affordable prices—and they last longer than candy.
👻 Healthy Halloween at Home
If you’re planning a family party or neighborhood gathering, try:
- A fruit-and-veggie platter shaped like a skeleton
- Banana ghosts (with raisin eyes!) or pumpkin oranges
- A “witch’s brew” punch with sparkling water and sliced fruit
- Fun movement games, like a costume dance-off or spooky relay races
These ideas keep kids moving, laughing, and focused on fun, not just sugar.
💜 Supporting Wellness Year-Round
Helping children build healthy habits doesn’t mean taking the joy out of childhood—it means finding fun, creative ways to protect their well-being. That’s something we believe in every season. Want more ways to support your family’s health and success? Visit our Programs & Partners page to learn how we uplift children, parents, and caregivers in the New Town community. And if you have questions or want to connect, reach out to us directly through our Contact page.
