Teal Pumpkin Project promotes inclusive Halloween trick-or-treating

The Teal Pumpkin Project, an initiative that began in Tennessee in 2012, encourages households to display a teal pumpkin during Halloween to signal they are providing non-food treats. This practice is intended to make trick-or-treating more inclusive for children with food allergies or specific dietary restrictions.

Participants can join the initiative by decorating a pumpkin teal and offering items such as stickers, bouncy balls, or glow sticks instead of, or alongside, traditional candy. While the project aims to increase safety and accessibility, caregivers are advised to remain vigilant, as some toys or allergy-friendly foods may still contain allergens.