History of Halloween

Emily Mann
Staff Writer ’15

Halloween, also known as All Hallow’s Eve, Allhalloween, or All Saints’ Eve is celebrated in many different countries and cultures on October 31. In the liturgical calendar it represents the triduum of Allhallowtide which is the time for remembering the dead especially saints and martyrs.

For example, in Mexican culture their celebration of Halloween is called the Day of the Dead. Day of the Dead is on October 31 and is celebrated with family and friends gathering to pray and remember their deceased loved ones. Family and friends also bring flowers and their loved ones’ favorite foods to the grave site.

Halloween can be traced back 2,000 years ago to ancient pagan festivals celebrated by Celtic peoples. They believed that the dead could walk among the living people during the time period of Halloween. It was also believed that the living could visit with the deceased on this day as well.

It is said, that the Celts wore costumes so spirits would mistake them for other spirits and leave them alone. Some Celts offered the spirits sweets and treats to please them into not haunting them. The Catholic Clergy in Medieval Europe adopted pagan customs such as going house to house wearing costumes and requesting gifts.

Many cultures throughout the world celebrate Halloween in some way on October 31 but here in the United States we go door to door trick or treating at night, watch scary movies, go to haunted houses, and gorge on candy.  Halloween is fun holiday to dress up and and be anything you want to for one night, but always remember to stay safe. Have a happy Halloween!