The Infamous History of Halloween

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 conjecture on the origin of Halloween (not the name) but the celebration. A number of historians link it to the Roman feast of Pomona, who was the goddess of fruits and seeds. Others believe it started as Parentalia, the "festival of the dead". It is nonetheless; more often linked to the Celtic festival referred to as Samhain, a Gaelic occurrence that celebrates the end of summertime.

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 plenty of symbolism and imagery that's evolved through the years and a lot of sub cultures and movements have led to it. Most particularly are the Jack-o'-lantern, Dracula, ghosts, death, evil, and dark scary themes. Black and orange are Halloween's official colors. Halloween has spawned a whole industry of costume manufacturers and every year the latest trend of popular movies and characters contributes to offerings.

There's also several activities that have become traditions of Halloween. Trick-or-treating is among the most preferred. Kids across the country dress up and go house to house within their neighborhoods amassing candy and sweets. There are Halloween parties, prank playing, games which include bobbing for apples, and attending haunted houses & graveyards.

Popular foods at Halloween are candy or caramel apples, candy corn, popcorn, apple cider, and baked pumpkin seeds. Several other cultures have traditional foods they prepare for example Ireland's barmbrack which is a fruit bread.

Halloween represents 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 claim it is their favorite season citing cooler weather, back to school, the beginning 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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