With its origins dating back nearly 2,000 years to the Celtic festival of Samhain, Halloween is a joyous occasion for many children. A chance to play dress up and, for one night, be someone other than yourself-not to mention the massive amounts of sweets and candy acquired in this annual escapade.
   With access to this treasure trove, just a friendly “trick or treat!” away, every year the question arises of just what the cut off age is for trick-or-treating. Some say that as soon as someone turns thirteen and officially ceases to be a “child,” they should stop collecting candy. Others say that they should not be allowed to trick-or-treat once they enter high school.
   The reason for these theories is that teenagers are liable to play mean tricks on younger children and may even steal candy. While many of these accusations against teenagers have been proven true, there really should not be a cut off age for trick-or-treating.
   Many teens go trick-or-treating each year and never cause any problems. As long as teenagers, or anyone for that matter, behave themselves while collecting candy, they should not be denied the privilege. Dressing up and happily going from door to door acquiring goodies is one of the main things teenagers look forward to each and every year.  It has become part of the American culture and therefore should be celebrated by all Americans, no matter how old or young they maybe.
   So, just remember that Halloween is a happy time and not a reason to go out and cause mayhem. If people focus on the positive aspects, then they can prove that people of any age should be allowed to go trick-or-treating.