subject: The Spectacular History And Superstitions Of Halloween [print this page] We all know that Halloween is on October 31st each year, but what exactly are the origins of this holiday? Halloween started out by the name of Samhain in the times that the Pagans of Ancient Gaelic culture celebrated as a festival. Most Pagans still celebrate it to this day. It was and is considered a season of harvest by them then and now. The ancient people would gather food they needed for the long winter months ahead at this time. They would also gather up all of the fall harvest during this time as well.
It was also believed that a thin veil between our living world and the world of the dead was at its thinnest on this night. This meant that those who had crossed over could now come back to communicate and visit on this of all eerie nights. Many bonfires were set in celebration of these festivals. Costumes as well as masks were worn to mimic those of the dwelling spirits who may have ill intent on this devil's night. The mask and costumes would confuse them and keep them from doing mischief to those wearing these. It was also said to appease all of the spirits as well.
The act of going from house to house for goodies on this haunting night can date back well into the Middle Ages. It is said to have gotten its start from the people who would go home to home wassailing during the Yuletide. In the Americas the art of trick-or treating started in the west end of the United States and then moved itself towards the east. The famous Jack-o-Lanterns of Halloween night is meant to ward off evil spirits with their bright candles and scary faces when lit and left burning on this All Hallows Eve. There are many other Irish and Scottish folktales regarding the Jack-o-Lanterns history and more. As with any fable there are many variations on it.
A few superstitions around Halloween include the famous pumpkin with scary faces outside your home with a lit candle within to keep evil demons and spirits at bay till the morning light. Then there is the one that tells you to only use brand new candles on this night, never old or previously used ones. The old ones can bring ill luck your way instead of great luck with the new ones. It is even said that if you notice one of your candles blow out without breeze or wind near them you have been visited by a ghost.
by: Hoby Brennan
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