By: Nicole R.
When I think of Halloween, I think of dressing up in a costume and going door to door around the neighborhood collecting delicious candy. But what is the real meaning of Halloween and where does it come from?The word Halloween is derived from the term "All Hallows Eve" which occurred on Oct. 31st. "All Saints Day," or "All Hallows Day" was the next day, Nov. 1st.
The origins of Halloween can be traced back to ancient Ireland and Scotland around the time of Christ. On Oct. 31st, the Celts celebrated the end of summer. This was important because it was when animal herders would move their animals into barns and pens and prepare to ride out the winter. This was also the time of the crop harvests. This annual change in season and in lifestyle was marked by a festival called Samhain, which means 'end of summer.'
Today typical festive Halloween activities include trick-or-treating, carving jack-o'-lanterns, lighting bonfires, visiting haunted houses, playing pranks, telling scary stories, watching horror films, as well as praying, fasting and attending church services.
So there is no reason to be afraid on Oct. 31st. After all, it’s just All Saints Day Eve. ☺
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