Books for Treats Day
Books for Treats Day is observed on October 31, alongside Halloween. It encourages people to offer books as an alternative to candy when children go trick-or-treating. The idea brings together the fun of Halloween and the pleasure of finding a story to enjoy.
How Books for Treats Day Started
According to Books For Treats, founder Rebecca Morgan began offering books to trick-or-treaters at her home in Willow Glen, San Jose, in 1995. Frustrated that candy was the primary Halloween treat, she noticed gently read children’s books at a local library sale for about what she was spending on candy. She bought books for children from toddlers through sixth grade and let them choose an age-appropriate title.
Books For Treats says Morgan formally started the initiative in 2001 to encourage a Halloween treat that “feeds kids’ minds, not their cavities.” In 2009, comic-strip creator Greg Evans included the idea in his “Luann” strips, helping more people and communities learn about offering books for treats. Families and community groups can adapt the idea to their neighborhood, offering a book on its own or alongside other Halloween goodies.
Why Books Make a Memorable Treat
Halloween is full of costumes, decorations, and surprises. A book adds a different kind of discovery: a new character, a funny poem, a spooky-but-gentle tale, or a fact-filled adventure. Children can revisit their treat long after the trick-or-treating route is over, and the story may even become part of a family reading routine.
Books for Treats Day also gives neighbors a chance to share their love of reading. A well-chosen book can feel personal, whether it is a picture book for a young reader, a comic for a child who loves illustrations, or a mystery for someone ready for a longer story. The best choice is one that feels welcoming and age-appropriate—not a book that needs to be rare or expensive.
There is room for plenty of Halloween spirit in the selection. Look for stories about friendly monsters, autumn walks, clever costumes, or brave characters facing a mild fright. For children who prefer something cozy, choose a humorous tale or a book about animals and everyday adventures. Families can also include books in languages spoken in their community, helping more children find a story that feels familiar.
Ways to Celebrate Books for Treats Day
- Set up a book basket. Place a basket near your front door with clearly visible choices, so children can pick a story that catches their eye.
- Choose gently used books. Check that each book is clean and in good condition. Ask a local library, school, or community group whether it has suggestions for collecting suitable titles.
- Offer age-friendly options. Include picture books, early readers, comics, and chapter books when possible. If you are unsure what a child likes, let them choose for themselves.
- Make a small display. Decorate a table with paper bats, pumpkins, or autumn leaves, and arrange the books so children can browse without making a mess.
- Invite neighbors to join in. Share the idea in a neighborhood group or with nearby households. Agree on a simple plan for where books will be offered, while keeping regular trick-or-treating safety practices in mind.
- Celebrate at school or the library. Organize a book swap, a Halloween read-aloud, or a take-home book table. Follow the venue’s usual rules for donations and participation.
- Read together afterward. Let the child who chose a book pick the first story for a relaxed Halloween reading moment at home.
When is Books for Treats Day?
Books for Treats Day: Every year on October 31.
| Year | Date | Day of the week |
|---|---|---|
| 2027 | October 31 | Sunday |
| 2028 | October 31 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | October 31 | Wednesday |
| 2030 | October 31 | Thursday |
| 2031 | October 31 | Friday |
Reviewed by the Holiday List editorial team on November 3, 2026 · Last updated November 3, 2026.
Frequently asked questions
When is Books for Treats Day in 2027?
Books for Treats Day is on Sunday, October 31, 2027. After that, it falls on Tuesday, October 31, 2028. Every year on October 31.
Is Books for Treats Day a public holiday?
No. Books for Treats Day is an observance, not an official public holiday, so schools and businesses stay open as usual.
How did Books for Treats Day start?
Rebecca Morgan began offering books to trick-or-treaters at her home in Willow Glen, San Jose, in 1995. She formally started the initiative in 2001 to encourage books as a Halloween alternative to candy.
What does Books for Treats Day celebrate?
Observed on October 31, Books for Treats Day encourages people to offer children books instead of—or alongside—candy when they go trick-or-treating. It brings Halloween fun together with the pleasure of reading.
How can you celebrate Books for Treats Day?
Set out a basket of clean, gently used, age-appropriate books and let children choose one while trick-or-treating. You can also invite neighbors to join in, host a book swap or read-aloud, or read together at home.
