Some stores put out Halloween candy early; many worry what holiday will look like

Candy companies are getting a head start, since trick-or-treating, like everything else, will look different this year.

It’s August, but we already we found Halloween candy in local stores Thursday. Parents we spoke to say the holiday must happen this year.

Companies including Hershey’s have teamed up with stores to get their Halloween candy out two to four weeks earlier than past years. It’s an effort to increase sales in case COVID-19 slows down trick-or-treating in October.

But people we talked to say they are not going to let the virus stop Halloween fun for them or the kid, even if they have to get creative.

For a group of cosplayers, costumes aren’t just for Halloween. They’re part of a year-round hobby, but Halloween is a time for them to let their costumes shine.

“It’s probably the one time of year that people don’t actually stare,” said Corrine Bourgete.

“I’ve loved it since I was a little kid, and I still do now.” Dylan Patrissi said.

But they’re worried COVID-19 might make the upcoming Halloween look a little different. Many are worried kids miss out on yet another fun activity.

“With everything that’s changing, they can’t go to school,” Jonathan Mead said. “They can’t see their friends. This is something that they need.”

“I’m sure they will be really sad and disappointed if they don’t get to go trick-or-treating,” Kelly Corr said.

Kandace Weber says she still plans to make Halloween fun for her son.

“Maybe a little trunk-or-, treat or even a car drive-thru that we could come up with for them, so they can have fun and dress up and still enjoy,” Weber said.

Stores including Walmart, Target and Walgreens say they will not sell Halloween candy early. They will stick to their normal schedules and put Halloween candy on the shelves in early fall.

“I just wear a mask,” Brooklyn Varnell said. “I’m still going trick-or-treating.”