The History of Halloween
Halloween began as an ancient Celtic festival called Samhain (pronounced "sow-in") over 2,000 years ago in what is now Ireland, the United Kingdom, and northern France. It marked the end of summer and the beginning of winter.
The Celts believed that the festival of Samhain blurred the line between the living and the dead. They thought that ghosts of the dead returned to Earth during Samhain. They disguised themselves with costumes and animal masks to avoid being recognized by ghosts. They lit bonfires and enjoyed feasts.
🎭 Where does the name "Halloween" come from?
When Christianity spread to Celtic lands, they brought their own celebration called "All Saints' Day", also known as "All Hallows' Day". The day before was called "All Hallows' Eve", which eventually was shortened to "Halloween". The name "Halloween" literally comes from the "All Hallows" holiday!
🍬 Why do we trick-or-treat on Halloween?
People believed that ghosts wandered around during Samhain. They left food outside to appease them.
Later, in medieval times, poor people went door-to-door asking for "soul cakes". In exchange, they prayed for the souls of the families' dead. This tradition was called "souling" and continued for centuries until it became modern "trick-or-treating".
🎃 The ancient Celts celebrated Samhain with large bonfires, elaborate costumes and community feasts. They believed this special night allowed the spirits of their ancestors to return and visit them. 🕯️
🇺🇸 Halloween Comes to America
Irish immigrants brought Halloween traditions to America in the 1840s. Over time, it evolved from a religious and superstitious holiday into a more community-centered, family-friendly celebration focused on costumes, decorations, and treats.
By the 1950s, Halloween had become mainly a holiday for children, and today it's one of the most popular holidays in America, with people of all ages participating in the spooky fun!