Custody swap on Halloween - how do you guys handle it?

Nov 261 min read

So my ex and I have 50/50 with the kids (ages 6 and 9) and Halloween falls on my ex's night this year. The kids are already asking if they can trick-or-treat with me instead. I don't want to be that dad who creates drama, but I also hate missing out on this stuff. Last year we did a split schedule but the kids were confused about which house to go to.

Has anyone figured out a good system for holidays that aren't officially "yours"? Looking for real solutions, not just "talk to your ex" bc that's obvious lol

7 comments261 views

Comments(7)

WWyatt C.Regularjust now

Halloween is legitimately hard to split. Does your custody agreement say anything about holidays? Some people do the 'celebrate on the day you have them' rule which would mean kids trick-or-treat with both of you on different nights.

BBrad H.Regularjust now

The kids asking to change the schedule is actually your leverage here. You can tell your ex 'our kids are asking about this - can we figure something out?' Hard for her to say no when the kids are directly asking.

FFrank K.Regularjust now

If your custody order doesn't specifically address Halloween, you have more flexibility than you think. A lot of parents swap specific holidays rather than strict days. Worth bringing up now before it becomes a thing.

SSam T.New Dadjust now

The fact that you don't want to be 'that dad' who creates drama is good instinct but also... don't sacrifice every holiday to avoid conflict. It sets a precedent that your ex controls the special days.

DDanny G.Regular3h ago

We do a split-day approach too but honestly this year I'm considering asking my ex if we can both take them since it's only one night and it matters to them. Not trying to be 'that dad,' just being realistic that missing Halloween is a bigger deal than missing a random Tuesday.

IIan P.Regular12h ago

Last year split schedule for Halloween is honestly the move if your ex is willing. Afternoon trick-or-treat with you on Thursday, evening with her on Friday. Kids still get both, no drama.

RRussell D.Regularjust now

Text her something like 'Halloween is important to the kids. Can we do a split evening this year so they get both of us?' Frame it as for the kids, not about you. Most reasonable exes will work with this.