The American tradition of “trickortreating” probably dates back to the early All Souls' Day parades(游行) in England. During the festivities, poor citizens would beg for food and families would give them pastries called “soul cakes” in return for their promise to pray for the family's dead relatives.
The distribution of soul cakes was encouraged by the church as a way to replace the ancient practice of leaving food and wine for wandering spirits. The practice, which was referred to as “goingasouling” was eventually taken up by children who would visit the houses in their neighborhood and be given apples, food, and money.
