Around the nation, voters and pundits are fixated on the 2024 electoral map. But there is a different map that is garnering attention this month — the annual Halloween Candy map.
In Georgia, the candy landscape for Halloween reveals some interesting trends this year. According to recent data, Jolly Ranchers have taken the top spot, marking a strong preference for fruity, hard candies among Georgia’s trick-or-treaters.
Following close behind are Swedish Fish, a chewy option that brings a nostalgic twist, and Reese’s Cups, which continue to hold a prominent place as a classic chocolate choice.
By the Numbers:
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• Jolly Ranchers: 145,023 pounds sold
• Swedish Fish: 118,786 pounds sold
• Reese’s Cups: 96,746 pounds sold
This breakdown gives insight into what Georgians prefer when filling up Halloween baskets this year. Fruity, chewy, and chocolatey flavors all seem to have their place, with a notable lean towards non-chocolate options in the top two spots.
In Context: CandyStore.com, a major player in the bulk candy sales market, analyzed 17 years of data to uncover these preferences. This 2024 report highlights both long-time favorites and rising stars in Halloween candy trends across the nation.
While Jolly Ranchers have been a popular choice in past years, Swedish Fish’s high ranking in Georgia may come as a surprise to some, though it has been in the top spot in Georgia in recent years. Reese’s Cups remain a reliable staple, appealing to those who enjoy a classic peanut butter and chocolate combination.
Why It Matters: As Halloween spending is expected to reach $3.5 billion for candy alone this year, understanding local favorites can help residents choose treats that align with neighborhood tastes. While Georgia has embraced the fruity and chewy spectrum, national trends show a slight dip in overall Halloween spending, predicted at $12.2 billion, down by 5% from last year.
Top Candy Trends This Year: Nationally, M&M’s have overtaken Reese’s Cups for the top spot in candy popularity. Sour Patch Kids also continue to climb in favor, landing in the third position overall due to their unique tangy taste that appeals to all ages. Additionally, the much-debated candy corn has moved up in the rankings, securing the seventh spot despite its divisive reputation.
