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Books For Treats Day

Indulge in a sweet treat for your mind and soul on Books For Treats Day - grab a book, some snacks, and get lost in an adventure!

Saturday

October 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEOctober 31

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYSchool

SUBCATEGORYLiteracy

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to trick or treat with a literary twist on October 31, also known as Books For Treats Day! This unique holiday encourages people to give out books instead of candy on Halloween. It was started by author and librarian Rebecca Morgan in 2001 as a way to promote literacy and healthier treats during the holiday season. Plus, who doesn't love getting lost in a good book? So this Halloween, spread the joy of reading and make your neighborhood a little bit brighter with some literary treats for all ages.

TIMELINE

Books For Treats Day Timeline

Inception of the Day

Rebecca Morgan, a librarian and author, initiates Books For Treats Day in an effort to promote healthier treats and literacy.

Formal Recognition

Several towns and cities across the United States begin officially recognizing Books For Treats Day, dismissing candy for books on Halloween.

Organized Distribution

Organizations and volunteer groups start organized book distributions in local neighborhoods, broadening the initiative's reach.

Celebrity Endorsements

Prominent authors and celebrities start endorsing Books For Treats Day, solidifying and enhancing its national recognition.

International Reach

The Books for Treats movement expands beyond the United States, fostering a love for reading in countries all around the globe.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Books For Treats Day

Host a book exchange party

Invite friends and family over for a book exchange party. Everyone can bring books they no longer want and trade them for new ones. It's a great way to discover new reads and clear out some shelf space.

DONATE

Donate books to a local school or library

Spread the love of reading by donating books to a local school or library. It's a meaningful way to celebrate Books For Treats Day and give back to the community.

CREATE

Create book-inspired treats

Get creative in the kitchen and make treats inspired by your favorite books! From Harry Potter's butterbeer to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory's golden ticket cookies, the possibilities are endless.

ATTEND

Attend a book reading or signing

Check out your local bookstore or author events and attend a book reading or signing. It's a great way to support authors and celebrate the joy of reading.

START

Start a book club

Gather some friends and start a book club! Choose a book to read together and meet up to discuss it over coffee or tea. It's a fun and interactive way to celebrate Books For Treats Day.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Books For Treats Day

It supports local libraries and bookstores

By participating in Books for Treats Day, you can help support your local library or bookstore. This event brings attention to these important community resources and encourages people to visit and borrow or purchase books.

It encourages reading and literacy

Books for Treats Day is a great way to promote the love of reading in children. By offering books as treats, it not only introduces them to new stories and characters, but also instills a value for education and learning.

It's a healthier alternative to traditional Halloween candy

Many parents are concerned about the amount of sugar their children consume during Halloween. Books for Treats Day offers a fun and creative alternative that promotes a healthy lifestyle while still indulging in something special.