“Tis now the very witching time of night, when churchyards yawn and hell itself breathes out contagion to this world.” — William Shakespeare, “Hamlet”
Halloween is not everyone’s favourite time of year, but it seems to be getting increasingly popular. This traditional celebration of all things spooky and ghostly has a rich and amazing history.
- WHERE DID IT BEGIN?: Ireland. The ancient Celtic Festival called Samhain was first celebrated more than 2,000 years ago in County Meath.
- DAY OF THE DEAD VS HALLOWEEN: Halloween and the Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) are very different celebrations. While Halloween promotes fear of the dead, the Day Of The Dead celebrates the dead.
- FEAR OF HALLOWEEN: Then you might suffer from Samhainophobia – the fear of Halloween.
- TRANSYLVANIA: You may have heard of this location due to its myths of Vampires but DID YOU KNOW it's an actual location in the region located in central Romania.
- WORLDS BIGGEST HALLOWEEN PARADE: Greenwich Village Halloween Parade in Manhattan, New York. Drawing thousands of costumed participants and even more spectators.
- GERMANY TRADITION: You hide your knives. This is to prevent returning spirits from getting injured.
- CATS AND HALLOWEEN: Black cats are a classic Halloween symbol for bad luck (PERSONALLY we don't believe this, they are too precious and adorable little panthers). They are also known to be associated with witchcraft.
- FINDING A HUSBAND: During the 18th century, single ladies devised Halloween traditions that were supposed to help them meet their romantic match. When bobbing for apples at parties, the winner would supposedly marry first. Women threw apple peels over their shoulders, hoping to see the initials of their future love.
- TRICK OR TREATING: Originally it was known as "Guising" in Scotland and Ireland. Taking candy from strangers one night a year (and one night only!) isn't a new or unique tradition.
- PUMPKINS OR TURNIPS: Originally carving turnips instead of pumpkins at this time. It was believed to have originated in Ireland in the 19th century.
In conclusion, If you're a fan of the spooky silly season, you will have plenty of fun with Halloween activities, Halloween costumes, trick-or-treating, and all the fun yummy Halloween candy.