Halloween used to be denounced as a US imposition of crass consumerism. But it seems that battle is lost, with Paul Harrison from the Deakin U business school saying Halloween is “simply yet another example of our country adopting an imported cultural ritual.” It’s all-good, as long as it does not become commercialised to the extent that low-income families feel excluded.

The Public Health Advocacy Institute of WA at Curtin U now sees Halloween in terms of damage, specifically sugar, control. “ Indulging in a treat every now and then is ok, but consider the stash your kids will bring home after trick or treating.”