California Created The Trunk-Or-Treat, Here Is Utah’s Unearthly Connection

The trunk-or-treat tradition has been a hot topic since its inception. Some celebrants argue it undermines the joy of meeting neighbors in their homes and claim it kills the overall town vibe by keeping people from decorating their houses. On the flip side, it’s more controlled, simpler to decorate a trunk instead of a front lawn, and kids can make a big haul in a short amount of time—though some critics grumble the kids haven’t worked hard enough to earn or appreciate the spoils.

So, who started this divisive idea? You might think it was Utah, given its flair for community activities. But according to this article, it actually began with a group of five congregations in Chico, California. However, guess what denomination this circle of churches belonged to? Yep, it was ward units from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Where do you stand on the trunk-or-treat debate? I know, it’s like asking a political or religious question at Thanksgiving dinner. Strong opinions have ripped families apart, and some even accuse the tradition of being the true origin of the Headless Horseman—when the horseman had the audacity to disagree with the trunk-or-treat idea in Sleepy Hollow and tragically lost his head.

Read More: 8 New Halloween Candy Offerings You Need to Hand Out This Year

It’s easy to see why this tradition caught on so quickly. Halloween candy duty is shortened from a night of watching the door to a simple hour or two and you are done. Then if you are on “walk with the kids” duty you can make the round in the same amount of time. It is a win-win-win for the lazy among us, but I have to admit that while I do love the quick candy haul the trunk-or-treat is a neighborhood party killer.