Because sometimes the spookiest thing is answering the door 47 times.

Confession time: I’m really not a Halloween person. I know—cue the gasps, dramatic lightning, and someone clutching their plastic pumpkin in horror. But seriously, trick-or-treating? Meh. Dressing up as a sexy version of something that should never be sexy? Hard pass. I’d much rather skip the doorbell chaos, avoid the sugar crash, and settle in with a hot beverage and a good book.

Of course, I don’t actually get to do that because my daughter is still firmly in the trick-or-treating stage, which means I’ll be out there dodging inflatable skeletons and rationing candy like a sugar economist.

But here’s one thing I do like to do: I always set out a Trick-or-Treat sign by our candy bowl. Since we’re not home to hand out treats, I want to make sure the neighborhood goblins know they’re welcome to grab a piece (or two… or three) without knocking. And if you’re hiding inside with the lights off and a horror movie marathon queued up, I’ve got you covered too.

Free Printables: Trick-or-Treat Signs

These signs are cheeky, charming, and totally printable. Just download, print, and pop one by your candy bowl, porch, or front door. No crafting required, unless you count taping it to a pumpkin.

Here’s what’s included:

• “Creep It Real and Take a Treat” For the pun-loving ghoul who appreciates a good dad joke.
• “Don’t Ghost the Candy—Take a Piece and Go” Perfect for those who want to keep the candy flowing and the doorbell silent.
• “The Witch Is Out—Take a Piece Before She Gets Back” A little sass, a little mystery, and a whole lot of candy diplomacy.
• “Please Take One and Share the Scare” Ideal for encouraging generosity (or at least pretending to).

Each sign is designed to be bold, readable, and festive—whether you’re going for spooky chic or chaotic cute. You can laminate them, frame them, or just slap them on the porch with painter’s tape and call it a win.

👉 Download the Trick-or-Treat Sign Pack Here

Bonus: Halloween Trick-or-Treat Lunchbox Notes

Because Halloween isn’t just about nighttime sugar rushes, it’s also about sneaking a little spooky joy and confidence into the school day.

I created a set of printable Halloween lunchbox notes filled with silly jokes and uplifting messages. They are perfect for tweens who are “too cool” for Halloween but still secretly love a good pun and a midday pick-me-up.

Here’s what’s inside:

 Jokes to make them giggle:

• “Why don’t ghosts like rain?” Because it dampens their spirits.
• “What’s a vampire’s favorite fruit?” A blood orange.
• “Why did the skeleton stay home from school?” He was bone-tired.

Inspirational notes to lift their spirits:

• “You’re spooktacular—never forget it.”
• “Creep it real, because you’re one of a kind.”
• “Even monsters need a reminder: you’re brave, bold, and boo-tiful.”
• “Witch better have confidence—because you’ve got it in spades.”

Each note is lunchbox-sized, printable, and easy to tuck into a sandwich bag, thermos lid, or snack pouch. Some offer a laugh, others offer a little love, and all of them help your child feel seen, supported, and celebrated during spooky season.

🍂 Want to keep the cozy vibes going after Halloween? Grab my Pumpkin Spice Lunch Notes—a collection of warm heartfelt messages to brighten your child’s day all fall long.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re dodging doorbells or dodging glue gun disasters, Halloween doesn’t have to be a stress-fest. These printables are here to help you keep the spooky spirit alive—without losing your mind or your tape dispenser.

So go ahead, set out the candy, sneak in a lunchbox laugh, and remember you’re doing Halloween your way. And that’s the real treat.

With coffee in one hand a candy bucket in the other,

💛 Bethany