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Oct 29, 2025By Tanvi Munjal
Halloween is a magical time for kids with costumes, giggles, and door-to-door fun. But for families managing food allergies or special diets, the holiday can feel scary instead of sweet. The Teal Pumpkin Project, led by Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE), is changing that by making Halloween welcoming for every child, regardless of allergy status.
What Is the Teal Pumpkin Project?
It is a simple way to say: “All kids are welcome here.” By placing a teal pumpkin or sign at your door, you signal that you’re handing out non-food treats, like glow sticks, pencils, or small toys, so children with food allergies can join the fun without worry.
It started in Tennessee in 2012 and grew fast. Now, it’s a global movement that brings smiles and relief to families everywhere. Every teal pumpkin is a promise that no matter your child’s diet or diagnosis, they can enjoy Halloween safely.
Why Is This Important?
Food allergies are real and can be life-threatening. One in thirteen kids has a food allergy, and even a tiny bit of the wrong candy can mean a trip to the hospital. Many Halloween treats have hidden dangers: nuts, dairy, soy, wheat, and even surprises in “mini” candies. Children on special diets, feeding tubes, or with conditions like celiac disease all benefit from safer, creative options.
The Teal Pumpkin Project takes away the stress and replaces it with pure festive fun. It’s not against candy; it’s about adding choices so every child feels included, respected, and safe.
How Can Parents Make It Happen?
The good news is, this project is doable, affordable, and practical for any family or housing society.
Simple Steps:
- Find or paint a teal pumpkin: No time to paint? Dollar stores, supermarkets, and online shops now stock teal pumpkins or “Teal Pumpkin Project” signs. Just print one from FARE’s website if you need.
- Stock up on non-food treats: Think glow sticks, bubbles, pencils, sticker sheets, erasers, small toys, temporary tattoos, bookmarks, stencils, rubber balls, vampire teeth, spider rings, anything small, fun, and safe. These can be found cheaply in party shops, online, or even supermarkets.
- Keep treats separate: If you want to offer both candy and toys, use two bowls (clearly marked, if possible). This prevents cross-contamination and lets kids choose what’s safe.
- Let neighbors know: Share the word by posting about the project in WhatsApp groups, putting a sign in your window, mentioning it in the building newsletter, or inviting friends to a pumpkin-painting session.
- Join the map: FARE’s website offers a map where you can register your location as a “Teal Pumpkin” home, so allergy families know where to go.
- Educate your kids: Explain why you’re participating by showing them the importance of kindness and inclusion. Involve them in picking treats!
Practical Tips:
- Avoid items with latex (some kids have latex allergies), and watch out for clay or playdough with wheat.
- Don’t stress if your teal pumpkin isn’t perfect, as it’s the gesture that counts!
- Opt for bulk packs or party supplies to save money.
- Use free printable resources and social media to spread awareness.
What Science Says
Experts confirm that for some, even contact with allergens can trigger severe reactions. Kids with diabetes, celiac, or eosinophilic disorders also face risks with certain foods. The only safe way is to avoid triggers and make sure everyone can join, regardless of medical history.
Choosing non-food treats doesn’t lessen Halloween; it expands it! Stickers and glow sticks deliver just as much excitement, and no child needs to feel left out of the fun.
Conclusion
You don’t have to skip the candy, the dressing up, or the happy chaos. The Teal Pumpkin Project lets you keep every tradition by just adding a little inclusion. Make your porch a place where every child can enjoy Halloween’s joy, no matter what’s in their bucket.
Give it a try this year. Real inclusion starts with small steps, and the smile on every child’s face will be your biggest reward. Let’s spread the teal and make this Halloween the happiest, safest, and most welcoming celebration ever.
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