Why is there candy on Halloween?

The tradition of giving candy on Halloween has its roots in a few different customs:

* Ancient Celtic festivals: In ancient Celtic cultures, Halloween (or Samhain) was a time to honor the dead. People would leave offerings of food and drink for spirits, which may have evolved into the tradition of giving treats.

* The practice of "souling": In medieval Europe, people would go door-to-door on All Souls' Day (November 2) and pray for the dead in exchange for "soul cakes" (a type of sweet bread). This practice may have influenced the modern tradition of trick-or-treating.

* The influence of the "mummers": In England and Ireland, groups of people would dress in costumes and go door-to-door singing songs and performing plays during the winter holiday season. These groups, known as "mummers," may have been the precursor to the modern-day Halloween costume.

* The commercialization of Halloween: In the 20th century, Halloween became increasingly commercialized, and candy became a popular and easy way to celebrate the holiday.

So, in short, the tradition of giving candy on Halloween is a combination of ancient Celtic customs, medieval practices, and modern commercialization.