Trick or Treat!

What is the History of Halloween?

Halloween is a holiday of costumes, pumpkins, witches, ghosts, haunted houses and trick-or-treating. What exactly is the history of Halloween? Where did these strange traditions originate?

What is Halloween?

The history of Halloween can be traced back 2,000 years. It was during these ancient times in Europe that the Celts celebrated the beginning of winter on the evening of October 31st. November 1st was the first day of their new year and it also marked the first day of winter.

When Christians began to gain authority in the 800s, the history of Halloween was forever changed; November 1st became known as All Saints Day or All-Hallows. It is believed that the Christians slightly altered the holiday into a church related celebration, honoring deceased saints. Not unlike Celtic tradition though, the Christians too honored the dead on this day. The evening of October 31st soon became known as All-Hallows Eve and was eventually changed to Halloween.

The History of Halloween: Traditions and Customs

Today in America it is traditional to celebrate the holiday by throwing a party in which the guests dress in costume.

The tradition of trick-or-treating and costumes are a little less tied to the history of Halloween. Door to door trick-or-treating began in America. Modern day trick-or-treating is most commonly practiced by children who walk door to door asking for candy. They customarily say "trick or treat" in anticipation that they will be given a treat which is most likely candy.

Today, dressing in costume is also a very popular way to celebrate the spooky holiday. Costumes range 

 from ghost and witch costumes to trendy costumes such as famous characters.

 This is a picture of my son after "trick or treating". He is already in his pajamas and counting all his candy! I'm not sure how much he has already eaten! It appears that he has had too much, but wants one more!

Save the M&M's for me!