This Halloween, many Canadian families are facing rising prices for candy, with some reports indicating an increase of over 10% since last year. Vancouver resident Cindy Verchere is preparing for an influx of over 3,000 children in her neighborhood, spending approximately $500 on treats this year. “It starts to add up,” she noted, mentioning her efforts to find sales.
B.C. Halloween Candy Prices Surge Over 10%
According to the 2025 Halloween Treat Cost Report by the Agri-Food Analytics Lab at Dalhousie University, candy prices across Canada have surged by 10% to 20% compared to the previous year. In British Columbia, Statistics Canada reports indicate a specific increase of 11.9%. This trend reflects a broader challenge facing families this Halloween.
Factors Behind the Price Increase
- Cocoa Prices: A dramatic rise in cocoa prices has been observed due to climate disasters impacting crop yields in West Africa.
- Packaging and Shipping Costs: Increased costs for packaging and logistics have further contributed to higher candy prices.
- Shrinkflation: Many manufacturers are responding by reducing package sizes, particularly for mini chocolates and snacks.
Sylvain Charlebois, director of the Agri-Food Analytics Lab, emphasizes that these trends indicate a continued generosity among Canadians despite rising costs. “Generosity has not shrunk,” he stated, highlighting that many are still willing to spend on Halloween festivities.
Smart Shopping Tips
Those looking to save on Halloween candy might find better deals in the days leading up to the holiday. Charlebois suggests:
- Being flexible with candy choices to find aggressive bargains.
- Shopping at drugstores or dollar stores for potentially lower prices compared to grocery stores.
For many, Halloween remains a cherished tradition worth the expense. Verchere reflects a common sentiment, expressing her commitment to making the holiday special despite the rising costs, saying, “We’re all in.”
