Fun Halloween Facts
by Krista Socash 		[Return to Articles]
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H allow Eve, Halloween, Samhain, All Hallows, Spirit Night, Hallow Elen, and Saven are all traditional celebrations that make up the holiday we know today as Halloween.

The origin of Halloween can be traced back to the early Celt tribes of about 5000 years ago. They celebrated their harvest and the Summer End Festival along with the Day of the Dead. Trick-or-treating actually started with these celebrations, with people leaving food and gifts for the dead in exchange for future messages and protection. The Celtic clergy (the Druids) were known as the healers and seers of prophecy. It is also the Celtic New Year.

Looking at Halloween today, we see influences from all over the world. Ancient Rome contributed their holiday of the Festival of Pomona, the Goddess of the harvest. Zombies came from the Haitian culture, Goblins and Spooks from the Indo-Europeans; skeletons from Mexico and South Americas; magic potions and foods from the African and Cuban cultures; special breads honoring the dead were made by the Christians.. Carved turnips and apples were used by gypsies and Europeans to ward off evil spirits. Costumes were worn from as early as the Celts up to the Mexican and South Americas. The word "witch" comes from the ancient Anglo Saxon word "wicce" meaning "Wise One". The witches pointed hat symbolizes one's power.

During the years 1684-1845 in early America, Halloween had evolved into the Day of Pranks, and the Night of Mischief. Some colonial states still had festivals to celebrate their animals, the spirit world, palmistry, alchemy and healing practices.

Today, children dress in costume and go house to house to gather candy. We see ghosts, pumpkins, Frankensteins and witches displayed on almost everything. It is a time often associated with spooky, scary things and demons. But the original celebrations for this time of year traditionally were to give gratitude for all you have harvested this year.

Now is a time to rest and enjoy all the fruits. Maybe you made some major changes, or accomplished something big. Go ahead and give thanks for all you have and will have. This is what our upcoming holidays are about: to be with those you love and share gifts, whether material, ethereal, feasting or celebrating life.

Do as our ancestors did - celebrate and enjoy all the magic!

-Rev. Krista Socash

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