Halloween with Allergies: Safe, Fun, and Totally Doable
Dairy-Free • Egg-Free • Peanut-Free • Family-Friendly
Halloween should be magical—not nerve-wracking. Whether you're navigating trick-or-treating with your allergy kiddo or prepping your home to welcome allergy-safe visitors, this guide is here to help. With simple swaps, clear communication, and a little teal pumpkin power, we can make Halloween feel safe, festive, and totally doable.
💙 What Is the Teal Pumpkin Project?
The Teal Pumpkin Project is a nationwide movement that helps make Halloween more inclusive for kids with food allergies. By placing a teal pumpkin on your porch, you’re signaling that you offer non-food treats—like stickers, glow sticks, or small toys—that are safe for everyone.
🎃 How to participate:
Put a teal pumpkin on your doorstep (paint one or grab one online)
Offer non-food treats in a separate bowl
Add your address to the Teal Pumpkin Project Map so families can plan safe routes
🍬 Safe Candy Brands (Dairy-Free • Egg-Free • Peanut-Free)
Always double-check labels, but here are some brands that often offer top-9-free options:
Enjoy Life – chocolate bars, cookies, snack packs
YumEarth – lollipops, gummies, fruit snacks
MadeGood – granola minis, crispy squares
Free2b – sunbutter cups, chocolate treats
Surf Sweets – gummy bears and jelly beans
💡 Tip: Keep original packaging so allergy families can check ingredients themselves.
👻 Costume Tips for Kids with Contact Allergies
Choose soft, breathable fabrics to avoid irritation
Avoid face paint or makeup unless it’s labeled hypoallergenic and fragrance-free
Use gloves or sleeves if your child is sensitive to certain materials or surfaces
Pack wipes and safe snacks in their treat bag—just in case
🏠 Trick-or-Treating Strategies
Bring safe swaps so your child can trade unsafe candy
Check labels before eating anything—even familiar brands can change ingredients
Use a separate bag for safe treats vs. “check later” items
Practice your child’s response if someone offers a treat they can’t have (“No thank you!” or “I have allergies!”)
🧡 Prepping Your Home for Allergy-Safe Visitors
Offer non-food treats in a separate bowl
Keep unsafe candy physically separate to avoid cross-contact
Use separate utensils if serving snacks
Wipe down surfaces and wash hands before handling allergy-safe items
Display a Teal Pumpkin sign or decor to show you’re participating
📎 Resources
💛 Final Thoughts
Halloween doesn’t have to be scary for allergy families. With a little planning and a lot of heart, we can make this season feel magical, safe, and full of joy. You’ve got this—and I’m right here cheering you on.
Because no one should have to sit out the celebration
Happy Halloween — Liz, your everyday allergy mom 💛
