The Candy Industry's Biggest Night — Reading Comprehension

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Grades

Standards

RI.4.3
RI.4.4
RI.4.7
W.4.2

About This Reader

This engaging reading passage explores Halloween as the biggest night for the candy industry in the United States. Students will discover the origins of Halloween, how it became linked with trick-or-treating, and why candy plays such a big role in the celebration today. The passage uses clear, grade-appropriate language and includes a glossary of key vocabulary words to support comprehension. Activities such as a multiple-choice quiz, writing prompts, and a cause-effect T-Chart help students build literacy skills while learning about cultural events. The reading supports standards like RI.4.3 and W.4.2. The passage is accompanied by an authentic public domain image, read aloud audio, and a Spanish translation, making it accessible and engaging for diverse learners. Perfect for classroom discussions on traditions, community, and history.

CONTENT PREVIEW

candies, gummies, sweets, gummy candies, gummy worms, confectionery, treat, tasty, candy store, confectionery store, candies, sweets, sweets, sweets, sweets, sweets — Assorted candies" by Shirley810 / Pixabay.

Halloween is the night when more candy is sold than any other day of the year in the United States. This tradition started long ago, but it did not always include candy. Halloween comes from ancient festivals when people gathered to celebrate the end of harvest and the start of winter. It was a time of fun and sharing in many cultures.

Over time, the holiday changed. In the 1800s, immigrants from Ireland and Scotland brought their own customs to America. One popular activity was dressing up in costumes and visiting neighbors to ask for food or small gifts. This was called "mumming" or "guising." People shared fruits, nuts, or homemade treats. The idea was to bring neighbors together and share joy with the community.

By the early 1900s, more and more children in the United States began going door-to-door. They would say "Trick or treat!" and hope for something sweet. At first, families gave out cookies, fruit, or coins. But in the 1950s, candy companies saw a chance to make Halloween special. They began to advertise their sweets just for this night. Candy was easy to give out, safe, and fun. Soon, it became the favorite treat for trick-or-treaters everywhere.

Today, Americans spend billions of dollars on candy each Halloween. Stores fill their shelves with chocolate bars, candy corn, and lollipops. Some candies are made only for the season. Families and friends enjoy parties with costumes, games, and, of course, lots of sweets. Giving out candy is now an important tradition that brings people together. It helps children meet their neighbors and feel part of their community.

Halloween is not just about candy, though. It also teaches about sharing, kindness, and understanding different cultures. People from many backgrounds now celebrate Halloween in their own ways. Some decorate their homes with pumpkins and lights. Others tell stories or play games. Everyone can join in the fun and learn about the history behind the night.

Interesting Fact: Americans buy about 600 million pounds of candy every year just for Halloween!

What is Halloween known for in the USA?

Selling the most candyBest time for pumpkinsSpring celebrationsSummer sports

Who brought new customs to America?

Immigrants from Ireland and ScotlandCandy makersNative AmericansTeachers

What did early trick-or-treaters receive?

Fruits and nutsCell phonesTV showsBicycles

Why did candy become the main treat?

It was easy and fun to giveIt was expensiveNo other food was allowedIt was only for adults

How does Halloween help communities?

Brings people togetherMakes people lonelyStops sharingEnds all parties

What is one lesson from Halloween?