The Halloween event turning Czech skeptics into American do-gooders

Just a few years ago, Halloween in Czechia was considered an American quirk – all plastic pumpkins and store-bought costumes. But one Prague community event has shown that Halloween is more about giving than taking.

Founded in 2017 by journalist-turned-inclusion trainer Dinah Richter-Spritzer, Trick-or-Treat for Charity began as a small neighborhood walk for her children and their friends.

Today, it is a citywide event that attracts hundreds of Czech and international families. Last year, it raised CZK 263,000 for SOS Children’s Villages, supporting food, therapy, and activities for children in need.

"I could try to be modest and say that I never imagined how big Trick-or-Treat for Charity would become, but the truth is, I'm far too ambitious in general to say that," she says.

"I think I always wanted all of Prague, all of Czech Republic, all of Europe to participate. I didn't realize how much of an impact the event would have on people, and how well it would bring Czechs and expatriates together, in a form of inclusion and intercultural communication."

A decade ago, Halloween was far from welcome. Czech purists viewed it as an imported custom, even a threat to traditional observances such as Dušičky (All Souls’ Day). In 2023, one Czech priest famously smashed pumpkins in protest.

Trick-or-Treat for Charity helped shift that perception. By linking the exchange of sweets with charitable giving, it reframed the holiday as an act of kindness rather than consumerism.

Prague 2 city councilor Tomáš Halva, one of the event’s most vocal supporters, says, “Halloween isn’t originally a Czech tradition. But this isn’t about replacing anything. It’s about creating a fun, imaginative space for children to discover a different culture and enjoy the creativity that comes with it.”

Families register online to receive a neighborhood map of participating homes and businesses. Children donate CZK 10 at each stop – a small gesture that turns the traditional “treat” into a contribution to those in need.

All proceeds support SOS Children’s Villages, funding essentials such as therapy, food, and recreation for vulnerable children. Kateřina Holečková of SOS describes what the funds raised by trick-or-treaters are spent on:

“In early June, our SOS Kajuta Club [a center for at-risk children] celebrated Children’s Day with a carnival. There were fairy tale costumes, guitar songs, and a quiz about Czech storybook heroes. During the summer, kids enjoyed our regular sports program, including their football tournament. They learn teamwork, patience, and never giving up.”

Now in its ninth year, Trick-or-Treat for Charity has grown beyond a neighborhood affair into an ongoing collaboration with local businesses. Richter-Spritzer reflects on the evolution:

“One thing I didn’t imagine is that it would turn into a mostly business event. That’s been a key evolution. Using the event to showcase local businesses is absolutely wonderful.”

The event has grown well beyond its expat roots. Czech families now make up a large share of participants, and local businesses sponsor candy stops or donate prizes. Everything, from flyers to social media posts, is bilingual.

“There was a moment when I saw the head of the Pirate Party [Ed. note: Ivan Bartoš] walking around and participating,” Dinah recalls. “That’s when I knew we’d made it. It shows that the people who live and work here care for the entire country; they want to give back."

The event offers a model for how small, volunteer-driven initiatives can close cultural divides while supporting a common cause, says Councilor Halva, who adds that in the end, it’s all about the kids.

“We do this for both expat and Czech families. Through play, laughter, and shared experiences, communities connect naturally. At the end of the day, we’re making something joyful for kids.”

New organizer Eva Horčičková, chosen by Richter-Spritzer to carry on the tradition, has expanded the program. The 2025 edition, taking place on Thursday, Oct. 23, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. will include more local businesses than ever and new activities such as a children’s disco, craft workshops, face painting, obstacle courses, airbrush tattoos, and even lightsaber duels.

Holečková from SOS adds: “It’s amazing to see this initiative grow every year. None of us expected it to become such a beautiful tradition, and we’re truly grateful to everyone who helps make it possible.”