Halloween Holiday History And Tradition

By Bill Johnson


Halloween certainly an exciting season. Not simply for small children but for grown ups likewise. After all, who doesn't get pleasure from getting dolled up as their favorite ghoul, goblin, hero, or bad guy, and step out trick-or-treating or even to a Halloween celebration. Halloween can be an event celebrated worldwide and in nearly every region as there are seasonal and religious links that are widespread. It has existed for pretty much 500 years.

There is some supposition on the beginning of Halloween(not the name) but the celebration. Several researchers link it to the Roman feast of Pomona, who was the goddess of fruits and seeds. Some others believe it began as Parentalia, the "festival of the dead". It is nevertheless, more often associated with the Celtic festival labeled as Samhain, a Gaelic occasion that honors the conclusion of summer.

Of course the name "Halloween" is far more widely linked to the Scottish variant of "All-Hallows-Eve", or, the evening prior to All-Hallows-Day or All Saints day. It arose in 1556, and throughout the centuries All-Hallows-Eve grew to become Halloween. Halloween is October 31st, and it is celebrated world wide, however cultures observe during this date. Certain countries enjoy on the 2nd Tuesday in December.

Halloween has loads of symbolism and imagery which has changed throughout the years and many cultures and movements have led to it. Most significantly are the Jack-o'-lantern, Dracula, ghosts, death, evil, and dark scary themes. Black and orange are Halloween's official colors. Halloween has spawned an entire industry of costume manufacturers and each year the latest trend of popular movies and characters contributes to offerings.

There are also numerous activities that have become customs of Halloween. Trick-or-treating has become the most preferred. Kids from coast to coast get dressed up and go house to house within their neighborhoods accumulating candy and goodies. There are Halloween parties, prank playing, games including bobbing for apples, and attending haunted houses & graveyards.

Favorite foods at Halloween are candy or caramel apples, candy corn, popcorn, apple cider, and baked pumpkin seeds. Many other cultures have traditional foods they prepare such as Ireland's Barmbrack that is a fruit bread.

Halloween marks the season of the harvest and the end of summer. Fall or Autumn in the northern hemisphere is when the weather turns cool and cultures harvest their crops in preparation of winter. Many people assert it is their favorite season citing cooler weather, back to school, the start of the American Football season, and many other reasons. All in all it is a great time and remains an important part of the calendar year.




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