Washington — More than eight in 10 Americans plan to celebrate Halloween this year, with chocolate and candy continuing to play a central role in the season’s traditions, according to a new survey from the NCA.
The research finds 81 percent of Americans intend to celebrate Halloween, while 85 percent say they will share treats with trick-or-treaters. Among parents, 94 percent say they will celebrate the holiday with their children.
“Halloween is one of the most anticipated seasons of the year, and chocolate and candy help make these moments special,” says John Downs, president and CEO of NCA. “From handing out treats and decorating the house to carving pumpkins and celebrating with family, Americans embrace the traditions that make Halloween fun — with candy at the center of it all.”
Handing out candy to trick-or-treaters ranks as Americans’ favorite way to celebrate, followed by decorating their homes and carving pumpkins. Chocolate is the most popular Halloween treat, followed by gummies, hard candy, and candy corn, according to the survey.
Consumers are also starting their Halloween shopping early, with more than one-quarter purchasing seasonal treats before October.
The survey finds the so-called “parent candy tax” remains popular, with 83 percent of parents admitting they sneak chocolate and candy from their children’s trick-or-treat hauls.
When it comes to candy corn, 60 percent of consumers eat the candy in one bite, while 28 percent start with the narrow white end and 12 percent begin with the wider yellow end. Pumpkins, ghosts, and skulls rank as Americans’ favorite shapes for Halloween treats.
NCA notes that consumers typically enjoy chocolate and candy two to three times per week throughout the year, averaging about 40 calories and approximately one teaspoon of added sugar per day.
