For many years I have handed out walnuts in the shell...all they can grab....and then grab some more....no I mean MORE! PLEASE - Take More! They usually back away and then run.
Last year only three came by.
This year switched to rubber-dog-chew tennis balls.
All the lights were on...only one came by...she said she had a cat...but she got dog-chews anyway....
Sincerely,
Gargoyle
and packages of dried cranberries.