I remember as a small boy going out on Halloween with a turnip lantern hollowed out by my father (the turnip flesh being served up for dinner the following day) with a lighted candle inside. What would the 'elf'safety people make of that today? We didn't knock on any doors or demand treats, and in fact I found it rather boring. I suppose that the exciting thing about it was that it reminded us that Guy Fawkes (bonfire/fireworks) night was only 5 days away; a real treat as that was the one and only occasion that fireworks were seen. I appreciate the concerns of people regarding fireworks, but to a kid in the 50s they were a miracle to behold. We were also drilled in the symbolism:
"Remember, Remember the Fifth of November. Gundpowder, treason and plot!
I see no reason why gunpowder treason should ever be forgot."