In the days before Halloween, some are focused on finishing up their costumes. Others of us are more focused on the candy — Reese’s cups, Sour Patch Kids, Tootsie Rolls, and whatever else crosses our paths during spooky season. In Vermont Edition's (first annual?!) Halloween candy special, we explore the history of trick-or-treating with food historian Susan Benjamin. The Bennington College graduate is the founder of True Treats Candy and a food historian and author. She's extensively researched the history behind some of the most popular candy that ends up in the Halloween hauls of today. We also talk with two local candy purveyors about current candy trends and what it's like to enter their busy season. Sheena Smith is the director of retail at the Vermont Country Store, and Kaisa Eaton is the manager of Whizbang’s Candy Lab on Church Street in Burlington. Broadcast live on Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026, at noon; rebroadcast at 7 p.m. Have questions, comments or tips? Send us a message or check us out on Instagram.