history of halloween presentation

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Where did Halloween come from?

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• Library of Congress Research Guides - Halloween & Día de Muertos Resources
• The Guardian - Shock of the old: Halloween when it was actually scary – in pictures
• LiveScience - History of Halloween
• Historic UK - Halloween
• National Endowment for the Humanities - EDSITEment! - Origins of Halloween and the Day of the Dead
• World History Encyclopedia - History of Halloween
• Halloween - Children's Encyclopedia (Ages 8-11)
• Halloween - Student Encyclopedia (Ages 11 and up)

What is Halloween?

Halloween is a holiday that marks the day before the Western Christian feast of All Saints , or All Hallows, and initiates the season of Allhallowtide. In much of Europe and North America, celebration of Halloween is largely nonreligious.

When is Halloween?

Halloween is celebrated on October 31.

Halloween may have developed partially from the pre-Christian holiday Samhain , which was celebrated in early medieval Ireland around November 1 as the beginning of a new year. However, it seems to have developed mostly from Christian feasts of the dead from later in the Middle Ages, including All Saints’ Day on November 1 and All Souls’ Day on November 2. By the 9th century, October 31 was being celebrated as All Hallows’ Eve, later contracted to Halloween, throughout Western Christendom.

How is Halloween celebrated?

Halloween is celebrated with pranks, parties, costumes, and trick-or-treating. People also often carve faces out of pumpkins .

How did Halloween become popular in the United States?

European immigrants to the United States in the 19th century brought Halloween customs with them and helped popularize the holiday. By the 1950s, trick-or-treating for candy had become one of Halloween’s most popular activities, and Halloween is today one of the biggest holidays for candy sales in the U.S. 

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Halloween , a holiday observed on October 31 and noted for its pagan and religious roots and secular traditions. In much of Europe and most of North America , observance of Halloween is largely nonreligious, celebrated with parties, spooky costumes, jack-o’-lanterns , pumpkin carvings , and the giving of candy. But the holiday also marks the beginning of Allhallotide, a three-day Christian triduum dedicated to remembering the dead that begins with Halloween (October 31) and is followed by All Saints’ Day (November 1) and All Souls’ Day (November 2).

Halloween had its origins in the festival of Samhain among the Celts of ancient Britain and Ireland . On the day corresponding to November 1 on contemporary calendars, the new year was believed to begin. That date was considered the beginning of the winter period, the date on which the herds were returned from pasture and land tenures were renewed. During the Samhain festival the souls of those who had died were believed to return to visit their homes, and those who had died during the year were believed to journey to the otherworld. People set bonfires on hilltops for relighting their hearth fires for the winter and to frighten away evil spirits, and they sometimes wore masks and other disguises to avoid being recognized by the ghosts thought to be present. It was in those ways that beings such as witches, hobgoblins, fairies, and demons came to be associated with the day. The period was also thought to be favourable for divination on matters such as marriage, health, and death . When the Romans conquered the Celts in the 1st century ce , they added their own festivals of Feralia, commemorating the passing of the dead, and of Pomona, the goddess of the harvest.

In the 7th century ce Pope Boniface IV established All Saints’ Day, originally on May 13, and in the following century, perhaps in an effort to supplant the pagan holiday with a Christian observance, it was moved to November 1. The evening before All Saints’ Day became a holy, or hallowed, eve, from which the word "Halloween" evolved. By the end of the Middle Ages , the secular and the sacred days had merged. The Reformation essentially put an end to the religious holiday among Protestants, although in Britain especially Halloween continued to be celebrated as a secular holiday. Along with other festivities, the celebration of Halloween was largely forbidden among the early American colonists, although in the 1800s there developed festivals that marked the harvest and incorporated elements of Halloween. When large numbers of immigrants, including the Irish, went to the United States beginning in the mid 19th century, they took their Halloween customs with them, and in the 20th century Halloween became one of the principal U.S. holidays, particularly among children.

As a secular holiday, Halloween has come to be associated with a number of activities. One is the practice of pulling usually harmless pranks. Celebrants wear masks and costumes for parties and for trick-or-treating, thought to have derived from the British practice of allowing the poor to beg for food, called “soul cakes.” Trick-or-treaters go from house to house with the threat that they will pull a trick if they do not receive a treat, usually candy. Halloween parties often include games such as bobbing for apples, perhaps derived from the Roman celebration of Pomona. Along with skeletons and black cats, the holiday has incorporated scary beings such as ghosts , witches, and vampires into the celebration. Another symbol is the jack-o’-lantern , a hollowed-out pumpkin , originally a turnip , carved into a demonic face and lit with a candle inside. Since the mid-20th century the United Nations Children’s Fund ( UNICEF ) has attempted to make the collection of money for its programs a part of Halloween.

See also the Britannica Classic article on Halloween , which appeared in the 13th edition of the Encyclopædia Britannica .

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HISTORY OF HALLOWEEN.

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Halloween Origins and Traditions Origins  Halloween began two thousand years ago in Ireland, England, and Northern France with the ancient religion.

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Halloween is among the oldest traditions in the world as it touches on an essential element of the human condition: the relationship between the living and the dead. The observance evolved from ancient rituals marking the transition from summer to winter, thereby associating it with transformation, which is still a central theme of the holiday.

Every recorded civilization has created some form of ritual observance focused on what happens to people when they die, where they go, and how the living should best honor those who have passed or respond to the dead who seem unwilling or unable to move on. Countries around the world today celebrate Halloween in one form or another, from Mexico's Day of the Dead to China 's Tomb Sweeping Day. The modern-day observance of Halloween in countries such as the United States and Canada – where this tradition is most popular – share in this ancient tradition, even though some aspects of the holiday are relatively recent developments and can be traced back to the Celtic festival of Samhain .

Christian groups through the years have routinely attempted to demonize and denigrate the observance, in part by repeating the erroneous claim that Sam Hain was the Celtic god of the dead and Halloween his feast. This error comes from the 18th-century British engineer Charles Vallancey, who wrote on the Samhain festival with a poor understanding of the culture and language, and has been repeated uncritically since. It was actually the Church itself, however, which preserved the Samhain tradition in the West by Christianizing it in the 9th century, setting the course for a pagan Northern European religious tradition's transformation into a worldwide secular holiday which has become the most popular – and commercially lucrative – of the year, second only to Christmas.

Halloween traditions in the West date back thousands of years to the festival of Samhain (pronounced 'Soo-when', 'So-ween' or 'Saw-wen'), the Celtic New Year's festival. The name means "summer's end", and the festival marked the close of the harvest season and the coming of winter. The Celts believed that the veil between the worlds of the living and the dead was thinnest at this time and so the dead could return and walk where they had before. Further, those who had died in the past year and who, for one reason or another, had not yet moved on, could do so at this time and might interact with the living in saying good-bye.

Very little is known of the rituals of ancient Samhain because the Church Christianized it – as with many pagan festivals – and what information is available comes from Irish monks who recorded the pre-Christian history of their people as well as other Christian scribes denigrating pagan rites. It seems, however, that the observance included stocking up supplies for the winter, slaughtering cattle, and disposing of the bones in "bone fires" which, in time, came to be known as bonfires. There were gatherings of communities for feasting and drinking while this was going on, but there was also the awareness of the "thin time" of the year and the possibility of otherworldly visitors showing up at the party.

Departed loved ones were expected – and welcomed – and the practice of setting out favorite foods for the dead may have originated as early as 2,000 years ago (though this is unclear), but many other kinds of spirits – some which never had human form – could also appear. Elves, fairies, the "wee folk", sprites, and dark energies were just as likely to pay a visit as those one longed to see again one last time.

Further, there was a very good chance that the spirit of a person one may have wronged would also make an appearance. In order to deceive the spirits, people darkened their faces with ashes from the bonfires (a practice later known as "guising"), and this developed into wearing masks. A living person would recognize the spirit of a loved one and could then reveal themselves but otherwise remain safe from the unwanted attention of darker forces.

All Hallows' Eve

How long ago these rituals were included in the observance of Samhain is unknown, but some form of them were probably in place by the time Christianity came to Ireland in the 5th century. The hill of Tlachtga (Hill of the Ward) in County Meath was the site of the bonfire lighted on or around 31 October signaling the beginning of Samhain festivities when it was answered by the much more prominent fire from the Neolithic site of the Hill of Tara across from it. Archaeologists from University College Dublin have dated the excavated earthworks to 200 CE but note these are only the latest developments at a site first used for ceremonial fires over 2,000 years ago.

The hill is named for the druidess Tlachtga, daughter of the powerful druid Mug Ruith who traveled the world learning his craft. She was raped by the three sons of Simon Magus, infamous for his confrontation with St. Peter in the biblical Book of Acts 8:9-24, and gave birth to triplets on the hill that bears her name before dying there. The inclusion of a biblical villain in her story, obviously, places the legend in the Christian era and aligns Tlachtga with St. Peter in so far as they shared a common adversary. Scholars believe that the Tlachtga story, like so many Celtic legends, was Christianized after the coming of St. Patrick to Ireland and her rape by the sons of Simon Magus was added to a pre-existing account.

The Christianization of pagan symbols, temples, festivals, legends, and religious iconography is well established and applies to the Samhain festival as well as many others. Pope Boniface IV had set 13 May as All Saint's Day (All Hallows' Day), a feast day to celebrate those saints who did not have a day of their own, in the 7th century when he consecrated the great pagan temple of the Pantheon in Rome to Saint Mary and Christian martyrs, but in the 8th century, Pope Gregory III moved the date of the feast to 1 November. The motivation for this move is still debated. Some scholars claim it was done intentionally to Christianize Samhain by turning it into All Hallows' Eve, which is most likely true as the move follows an established Christian paradigm of "redeeming" all things pagan in an effort to ease the conversion process of a given population.

Prior to Christianization, 13 May had been the last day of the Roman festival of Lemuria (which ran 9, 11, 13 May), dedicated to placating the angry or restless dead. The festival developed from a pair of observances held earlier in the year, Parentalia – which honored the spirits of one's ancestors (13-21 February) – and Feralia – which honored the spirits of loved ones lost (21 February). On Feralia, the living were obligated to remember and visit the graves of the dead and leave them gifts in the form of grains, salt, bread soaked in wine, and wreaths, accompanied by violet petals.

Other Influences on Development

As it was with Parentalia, Feralia, Lemuria, and many others, so it was with Samhain. Previously, the Samhain festival was associated with all those who had gone on before, with the earth, and the change of the year; this transformation was marked by celebration and communal activities. Once the festival was Christianized, All Hallows' Eve became a night of vigil, prayer, and fasting in preparation for the next day when the saints were honored at a far tamer celebration.

The old ways had not died out, however, and bonfires were still lighted – only now in honor of Christian heroes – and the turning of the seasons was still observed – only now to the glory of Christ. Many of the rituals which accompanied this new incarnation of the festival are unknown but by the 16th century, the practice of "souling" had become integral. The poor of the town or city would go about knocking on doors asking for a soul-cake (also known as a soul-mass-cake) in return for prayers.

This practice is thought to have begun in response to the belief in purgatory where it was thought a soul lingered in torment unless elevated by prayer and, most often, money paid to the Church. After the Protestant Reformation , "souling" continued in Britain , only now the Protestant young and poor offered to pray for the people of the house and their loved ones instead of those in purgatory while Catholics continued the older tradition.

In the 17th century, Guy Fawkes Day added a new component to the development of Halloween. On 5 November 1605, a group of dissident Catholics tried to assassinate the protestant King James I of Britain in an attempt known as the Gunpowder Plot . The attempt failed and one of the group, Guy Fawkes, was caught with the explosives beneath the House of Lords and, although he had co-conspirators, his name attached itself famously to the plot.

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Guy Fawkes Day was celebrated by the Protestants of Britain as a triumph over "popery", and 5 November became an occasion for anti-Catholic sermons and vandalism of Catholic homes and businesses even though, officially, the government claimed it was a celebration of Providence sparing the king. On Guy Fawkes night, bonfires were lit and unpopular figures – most often the Pope – were hanged in effigy while people drank, feasted, and set off fireworks. Children and the poor would go house to house, often wearing masks, pushing an effigy of Guy Fawkes in a wheelbarrow and begging for money or treats while threatening vandalism if they were refused.

Coming to North America

When the British came to North America, they brought these traditions with them. The Puritans of New England , who refused to observe any holidays which might be associated with pagan beliefs – including Christmas and Easter – kept the observance of Guy Fawkes Day on 5 November as a reminder of their supposed moral superiority to Catholics. Guy Fawkes continued to be celebrated up until the American Revolution of 1775-1783.

The rituals of Samhain arrived in the United States less than a century later with the displacement of the Irish in 1845-1849, during the potato famine. The Irish, largely Catholic, continued to observe All Hallows' Eve, All Saint's Day, and All Soul's Day along with the practice of "souling" but these festivals by now were infused with folk traditions such as the jack-o'-lantern.

Further Developments

The jack-o'-lantern is associated with the Irish folktale of Stingy Jack, a clever drunk and con man who fooled the devil into banning him from hell but, because of his sinful life, could not enter heaven. After his death , he roamed the world carrying a small lantern made of a turnip with a red-hot ember from hell inside to light his way. Scholars believe this legend evolved from sightings of will-o'-the-wisp, swamp and marsh gasses which glowed in the night. On All Hallows' Eve, the Irish hollowed out turnips and carved them with faces, placing a candle inside, so that as they went about "souling" on the night when the veil between life and death was thinnest, they would be protected from spirits like Stingy Jack.

The basics of Halloween were now in place with people going from house to house asking for sweet treats in the form of the soul-cakes and carrying jack-o'-lanterns. Shortly after their arrival in the United States, the Irish traded the turnip for the pumpkin as their lantern of choice as it was much easier to carve. Guy Fawkes Day was no longer celebrated in the United States but aspects of it attached themselves to the Catholic holidays of October, especially vandalism, only now it was indiscriminate: anyone's home or business could be vandalized around 31 October.

In the village of Hiawatha, Kansas, the morning after Halloween in 1912, a woman named Elizabeth Krebs grew tired of having her garden – and entire town – vandalized once a year by marauding children wearing masks and, initially using her own resources, organized a party in 1913 for the young people where, she hoped, she would tire them out enough that they would have no energy for destruction.

She underestimated their determination, however, and the community was vandalized as usual. In 1914, she involved the entire town, brought in a band, held a costume contest, and put on a parade – and her plan worked. People of all ages enjoyed a festive, rather than disruptive, Halloween. News of her success traveled outside of Kansas to other towns and cities which adopted the same course and established Halloween parties which included costume contests, parades, music , food, dancing, and sweet treats accompanied by frightening decorations of ghosts and goblins.

Although Mrs. Krebs is sometimes cited as the “mother of modern Halloween”, this is not entirely true as she did not institute the practice of going door-to-door asking for treats. This tradition was a few centuries old by the time she put on her first event. Mrs. Krebs' original vision definitely did impact how people in America celebrate Halloween, however, and the Halloween Frolic of Hiawatha, Kansas, continues to be observed annually along with the many similar festivals it inspired.

The party as a distraction from destruction, however, did not catch on nationwide and, by the 1920s, so-called "mischief night" had become a serious problem, not only in the United States but also in Canada. How, exactly, the practice of destroying people's property on the night of 31 October morphed into going door-to-door asking for candy in return for leaving a home in one piece is unclear, but it was already established in Canada by 1927 when a newspaper article from Blackie, Alberta, Canada featured a story about children going door-to-door in this way and is the first known appearance in print of the phrase "trick or treat". The children were given the candy and the homeowner was left in peace.

This tradition continued in North America throughout the 1930s, was interrupted by World War II owing to the sugar ration which dramatically cut the candy supply, and reemerged in the late 1940s. The familiar tradition of the present day dates to the 1950s and has steadily become popular in other countries, following the same basic paradigm. Today, Halloween is not generally associated with any particular religion or tradition and is commonly viewed as a secular community holiday, primarily focused on the young, and a boon for businesses offering candy and decorations as well as the entertainment industry which releases films, TV specials, and books on paranormal themes.

Central Theme

For many Neo-Pagans and Wiccans in the modern day, however, the holiday continues to be observed – as closely as possible – as it was in the ancient past. The central theme of Samhain was transformation. The year turned from the light days to the dark, the dead crossed over into the land of the living or moved on to the other side, people disguised themselves as other entities, and entities might appear as people, animals were slaughtered and turned into food while grains, fruits, and vegetables were similarly transformed for winter storage and wood and bone went up in the flames of the bonfires as smoke.

Transformation is still central to the observance of Halloween. The mask and costume transforms the wearer from their everyday life to another persona. For a night, one becomes Darth Vader or a zombie or the Great Pumpkin. The best-known, and most popular, costumes also touch on transformation. The werewolf is a human who changes into an animal; the vampire can vanish into smoke or become a bat; ghosts were once people.

In pre-Christian Ireland, the goddess most closely associated with Samhain was the Morrigan , the deity associated with war and fate who led her people, the Tuatha de Danaan, to freedom in a battle against the Fomorians. The Morrigan, in every one of her stories, is a transformative figure and in the story from the Irish epic Cath Maige Tuired she changes the fate of her people, making them their own masters instead of slaves of other forces.

The transformation was often frightening but could also be inspiring. The werewolf figure developed in response to fear of animal attacks and the vampire, perhaps, as a response to the fear of the angry dead who returned to torment the living. In these cases, however – and many others – it was within human power to kill the monster and so their legends can empower people to recognize their own strengths in the face of perilous circumstances.

The masks of Halloween and the present-day traditions represent this same theme and touch on the most basic aspects of the human condition and the ancient observance of Samhain. The costumes people wear represent fears and hopes in the same way the people centuries ago wore their masks to deter unwelcome spirits and experiences while anticipating joyful reunions with loved ones.

Many of the costumes represent the universal fear of death and the unknown which, for a night anyway, is mastered as one becomes that which one would normally dread and, transformed, neutralizes that fear. At its most basic level, Halloween is – or can be – a triumph of hope over fear, which is most likely what it also meant to the ancient Celts at Samhain thousands of years ago.

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• Grimassi, R. Spirit of the Witch. Llewellyn Publications, 2003.
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Mark, J. J. (2019, October 21). History of Halloween . World History Encyclopedia . Retrieved from https://www.worldhistory.org/article/1456/history-of-halloween/

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Mark, Joshua J.. " History of Halloween ." World History Encyclopedia . Last modified October 21, 2019. https://www.worldhistory.org/article/1456/history-of-halloween/.

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Understanding Halloween: An Informative PowerPoint Presentation

Halloween, known as All Hallows’ Eve, is a widely celebrated holiday observed on October 31st each year. It originated from ancient Celtic traditions and has evolved over centuries into a holiday associated with costumes, trick-or-treating, and various festive activities. Understanding the significance and history of Halloween is essential to fully appreciate this holiday.

The origins and history of Halloween can be traced back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, which marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. It was believed that on the night of October 31st, the boundary between the living and the dead was blurred, allowing spirits to roam the Earth. With the influence of Christianity, the holiday incorporated practices from All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, merging the pagan and Christian traditions into what is now known as Halloween.

Traditional Halloween activities include costume dressing and trick-or-treating, where children go door-to-door in costumes, collecting candy from neighbors. Another popular tradition is the carving of jack-o’-lanterns, originally done with turnips in Ireland, and later with pumpkins in America. Apple bobbing, haunted houses, and telling ghost stories also add to the festive spirit of Halloween.

In modern times, Halloween celebrations have expanded, with parties and events being held in various settings. People decorate their homes and workplaces with spooky decorations, ranging from spider webs and skeletons to eerie lighting and themed music. Dressing up in costumes has become a creative expression, with costumes ranging from classic witches and vampires to pop culture icons and superheroes. Candy and treats play a central role in Halloween, with individuals and communities sharing sweets and indulging in festive-themed treats.

Creating a Halloween PowerPoint presentation can be a fun and engaging way to celebrate the holiday. Tips for creating an impressive Halloween-themed presentation include choosing a theme and design that aligns with the essence of Halloween, creating content slides that capture the spirit of the holiday, incorporating Halloween-themed graphics and animations to enhance visuals, utilizing multimedia elements such as videos and sound effects for added impact, and presenting with confidence to engage and captivate the audience. With these guidelines, you can create a memorable Halloween PowerPoint presentation that captures the essence of this spooky holiday.

Key takeaway:

• Halloween celebrates ancient Celtic festival: Halloween has its roots in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, marking the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter.
• Traditional Halloween activities: Halloween is associated with costume dressing, trick or treating, jack-o’-lantern carving, apple bobbing, haunted houses, and ghost stories.
• Modern Halloween trends: Halloween is now celebrated with parties, events, decorations, costumes, and an abundance of candy and treats.

What is Halloween?

Halloween is a holiday celebrated on October 31st each year. It originated from ancient Celtic festivals and has evolved over time. What is Halloween? During Halloween, people dress up and go trick-or-treating. This involves children going door-to-door, asking for candy by saying “ trick or treat “. It is a fun time for both children and adults .

Halloween is also associated with spooky decorations and symbols like jack-o’-lanterns , ghosts , witches , and black cats . Many people enjoy watching scary movies and attending Halloween parties . The holiday, rooted in superstition and folklore , is what Halloween is all about, with beliefs in ghosts , spirits , and supernatural entities .

The Origins and History of Halloween

Discover the fascinating origins and history of Halloween in this section. Unearth the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain and delve into the influences of Christianity on the spooktacular holiday. Get ready for a journey through time and uncover the mysterious beginnings of this widely celebrated event. Buckle up as we explore the captivating tales and traditions behind Halloween’s rich past.

The Ancient Celtic Festival of Samhain

The Ancient Celtic Festival of Samhain , observed in modern Halloween traditions, marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. Celts believed it was a time when the boundary between the living and the dead was blurred.

During Samhain , souls of the dead were believed to visit homes, and offerings of food and drink were left to appease these spirits. Bonfires were lit to ward off evil spirits and provide warmth.

Samhain was also a time for divination and fortune-telling. Druids , Celtic priests, made predictions about the future and people gathered around bonfires to listen.

The ancient Celts celebrated Samhain with feasting, storytelling, and communal gatherings. They dressed in costumes and masks to confuse and ward off malevolent spirits.

Today, Halloween carries on the traditions of Samhain in various ways. The connection to nature and the spiritual realm resonates in our modern celebrations.

Influence of Christianity on Halloween

The holiday of Halloween has been significantly influenced by Christianity . One way Christianity has influenced Halloween is through the Christianization of the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain . This transformation took place as Christianity spread and pagan practices were adapted into Christian celebrations. As a result, Samhain became associated with All Hallows’ Eve, the night before All Saints’ Day.

All Saints’ Day, also known as All Hallows’ Day, is a Christian holiday that honors all saints and martyrs. Halloween originated as the eve of this holy day, but over time, the focus shifted from the spirits of the dead to the saints and their important role in the Christian faith.

Another Christian influence on Halloween is All Souls’ Day , which follows All Saints’ Day. This day serves as a time to remember and pray for the souls of the departed. In certain Christian traditions, Halloween has become an occasion to honor and commemorate loved ones who have passed away.

Christian symbols have also been incorporated into Halloween. Over the course of time, angels , saints , and devils have become part of the imagery associated with this holiday. As a result, Halloween now encompasses a blend of both pagan and Christian elements.

In recent years, some Christian communities have introduced “Trunk or Treat” events as a safer alternative to traditional trick-or-treating. During these events, families decorate their car trunks and distribute candy to children in a controlled and supervised environment.

The influence of Christianity on Halloween has created a unique and diverse holiday celebrated worldwide. This influence can be seen in the incorporation of Christian traditions and symbols, as well as the introduction of alternative celebrations within Christian communities.

Traditional Halloween Activities

Discover the enchanting traditions of Halloween as we delve into the world of traditional Halloween activities . From costume dressing and trick-or-treating to jack-o’-lantern carving , apple bobbing , and the thrill of haunted houses and ghost stories , we’ll embark on a journey through the beloved festivities that have captured our imaginations for centuries. Unleash your inner child and get ready to be immersed in the spooky and delightful traditions that make Halloween a memorable experience each year. Let’s dive in!

Costume Dressing and Trick or Treating

Costume dressing and trick or treating are essential Halloween activities that bring joy to children and adults. These traditions allow people to embrace the Halloween spirit and be creative. From infants to adults, individuals of all ages can participate in costume dressing , immersing themselves in the Halloween atmosphere and having fun.

Trick or treating is another cherished custom where children, dressed in costumes, go door-to-door, saying “ Trick or treat! ” in exchange for candy or treats. This tradition not only provides a fun and secure experience but also brings communities together, creating lasting memories. Safety measures, such as accompanying young children and checking treats, ensure that everyone can enjoy this activity.

Over the years, these customs may have evolved, but their essence remains the same. Costume dressing and trick or treating enable people to indulge in the excitement and camaraderie of Halloween. It’s a time to let your imagination run wild, connect with your community, and have a spooktacular time!

Jack-o’-lantern Carving

Carving a jack-o’-lantern is a Halloween tradition. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Select a pumpkin: Choose a smooth, firm pumpkin with a flat bottom .
• Cut off the top: Use a sharp knife to cut a circular lid around the stem.
• Scoop out the insides: Remove all the seeds and pulp with a spoon or ice cream scooper.
• Design your pattern: Use a marker to draw your desired design on the jack-o’-lantern.
• Carve the jack-o’-lantern: Use a serrated knife or pumpkin carving tool to carefully cut along the marker lines.
• Remove excess flesh: If needed, remove some of the pumpkin flesh inside the design to improve light shine.
• Place a candle or LED light inside: Light up your jack-o’-lantern with a small candle or LED light.
• Display your jack-o’-lantern: Find a safe and visible spot to showcase your masterpiece.

True story: One Halloween, a family carved a giant jack-o’-lantern together. They designed a spooky face and added intricate details. When trick-or-treaters came by, they admired the family’s incredible creation. The jack-o’-lantern became the talk of the neighborhood, making the family proud.

Apple Bobbing

Apple bobbing is a beloved Halloween tradition that has been enjoyed for centuries. It involves participants using only their mouths to retrieve apples from a basin of water. Setting up a large basin filled with water and adding fresh, fully submerged apples to it is the first step. Then, participants take turns trying to catch an apple with their mouths, without using their hands. This requires skill , timing , and sometimes even a little bit of luck . Apple bobbing is not only a fun competition at Halloween parties, but also a festive activity that adds nostalgia and enjoyment to fall festivals. It can be tailored to different age groups by using larger apples for adults and smaller ones for children.

The origins of apple bobbing can be traced back to ancient Celtic traditions associated with the festival of Samhain . It was believed that biting into the first apple of the season brought good fortune in the following year. Today, apple bobbing continues to be a lighthearted Halloween activity that brings joy and laughter to people of all ages.

Haunted Houses and Ghost Stories

Haunted Houses: Halloween visitors enter haunted houses to experience a thrilling atmosphere filled with ghost stories. These haunted houses create a spooky ambiance with dim lighting, creepy decorations, and eerie sound effects. Some haunted houses even have actors dressed as ghosts and monsters who startle visitors.

Ghost Stories: For centuries, people have shared spine-chilling tales of spirits and haunted places during Halloween, adding to the sense of fright and excitement in haunted houses. Now, let me share a true ghost story with you.

A couple of years ago, my friends and I visited a haunted house, eager to explore the chilling atmosphere and encounter ghost stories. As we cautiously walked through the dimly lit rooms, we felt an eerie presence surrounding us. Suddenly, a faint whisper, reminiscent of famous ghost stories, came from a dark corner. Our hearts raced as we turned to see an old wooden rocking chair moving on its own, sending shivers down our spines. Goosebumps formed on our arms, as if the ghost stories we had heard were coming to life.

In one particular room, we witnessed the manifestation of ghost stories ourselves – shadowy figures darting across the walls. The hair on the back of our necks stood up as we realized the supernatural occurrences unfolding before our eyes. The haunted house lived up to its reputation, giving us chills and fulfilling our desire for ghost stories.

To this day, that unforgettable encounter at the haunted house remains etched in our memories, continuing to send shivers down our spines whenever we recall the ghost stories and haunted atmosphere. Haunted houses truly provide a unique experience for those seeking a mix of fright, excitement, and captivating ghost stories.

Modern Celebrations and Trends

Get ready to embrace the spooktacular spirit of Halloween with a glimpse into the modern celebrations and trends surrounding this bewitching holiday. From wild Halloween parties and events that will send chills down your spine, to the jaw-dropping creativity of Halloween decorations that will transform your home into a haunted wonderland . Explore the latest trends in Halloween costumes that guarantee to turn heads, and indulge in the delectable world of Halloween candy and treats that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into the bewitching world of modern Halloween celebrations!

Halloween Parties and Events

Halloween parties and events are a popular way to celebrate the spooky holiday. Here are some ideas for Halloween party activities:

• Costume contest: Guests come dressed in scary or creative costumes and prizes are awarded for the best costumes.
• Haunted house: Transform your home or backyard into a haunted house with decorations and creepy sounds.
• Trick-or-treating: Organize a group trick-or-treating excursion if the party is in a neighborhood or family-friendly.
• Pumpkin carving: Provide pumpkins and carving tools for guests to create their own jack-o’-lanterns.
• Scary movie marathon: Set up a cozy outdoor or indoor movie area and screen classic horror films throughout the night.
• Spooky games: Play Halloween-themed games like bobbing for apples or a mummy wrap contest.

Now, let’s delve into the true history of Halloween . Halloween parties and events can be traced back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain , which marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. It was believed that on this day, the boundary between the living and the dead was blurred, allowing spirits to freely roam the earth. People would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off these roaming spirits.

With the arrival of Christianity, the holiday began to incorporate elements of All Saints’ Day , also known as All Hallows’ Day , celebrated on November 1st. Hence, the night before became known as All Hallows’ Eve , eventually shortened to Halloween. Over time, Halloween parties and events evolved into the holiday we know today, filled with costumes, candy, and spooky fun.

Halloween Decorations

When it comes to Halloween decorations , there are many options to create a spooky atmosphere . Here is a list of popular Halloween decorations :

– Jack-o’-lanterns : Carving pumpkins and placing candles inside them is a classic Halloween tradition .

– Spider webs : Stretching fake spider webs across doorways, bushes, and furniture adds a creepy touch.

– Ghosts : Hanging ghost decorations from trees or ceilings gives a haunting appearance.

– Skeletons : Standing or hanging skeletons can bring a bone-chilling vibe to your Halloween decor .

– Witch hats and brooms : Placing witch hats and brooms in strategic spots adds a witchy element.

– Scary props : Adding fake severed limbs, tombstones, or a creepy cauldron can set a frightening scene.

– Creepy cloth : Draping black or gray cloth over furniture or doorways can create a spooky ambiance.

– Spooky lights : Using orange or purple string lights or LED candles can add an eerie glow.

These Halloween decorations can transform your home or party venue into a chilling and enchanting space.

Last Halloween, I went all out with my decorations . I transformed my front yard into a haunted graveyard with tombstones, skeletons, and eerie lighting. As the sun set and darkness fell, I heard whispers from passing trick-or-treaters. Some children were too scared to approach my house, while others approached in awe. I could see the excitement and fear in their eyes as they timidly made their way up the path. It was a memorable Halloween that left an impression on the neighborhood children and myself. The decorations truly brought the magic of Halloween to life, creating an unforgettable experience.

Halloween Costumes

Halloween costumes are a fantastic way for people to express their creativity and fully immerse themselves in the holiday spirit. It’s always exciting to see the wide range of costumes that people come up with. Some of the top choices include classic characters like witches, vampires, and zombies. Superhero costumes have also gained immense popularity, with characters like Batman or Wonder Woman being a common choice.

For those who prefer a touch of whimsy, fantasy creatures like mermaids, fairies, and unicorns make for enchanting costume options at Halloween parties. Many individuals draw inspiration from famous movie characters or celebrities, creating unique and eye-catching costumes that stand out from the crowd.

Couples often take the opportunity to coordinate their costumes, opting to dress up as iconic duos or characters from their beloved TV shows or movies. This adds an extra layer of fun and excitement to their Halloween celebrations. Meanwhile, group costumes are increasingly popular among friends or families attending Halloween events together. Themes such as superheroes, pirates, or animals allow them to showcase their unity and shared enthusiasm for the occasion.

For those who enjoy a DIY project, creating their own costumes using everyday items and accessories can be incredibly rewarding. This approach ensures that their outfit is one-of-a-kind and suits their personal style perfectly.

It’s common to find costume contests at Halloween parties, where participants have the chance to win prizes for their creativity, scariness, or humor. These contests add a thrilling competitive element to the festivities.

The popularity of specific costume choices can vary from year to year, influenced by the latest trends in movies, TV shows, and popular culture. This dynamic nature keeps Halloween fresh and exciting, as it allows individuals to stay current and relevant with their costume selections.

Candy and Treats

Candy and treats are an integral part of Halloween. Halloween celebrations are incomplete without the presence of various candies and treats. Popular options for indulgence include delicious chocolate bars, vibrant candy corn, chewy gummy worms, and delightful lollipops.

Trick-or-treating , a customary practice, involves children going door to door, collecting an assortment of candies from their generous neighbors. Not only that, but candy can also be distributed at Halloween parties and events, spreading the sweetness among attendees.

It brings immense joy to families when they engage in the delightful act of baking Halloween-themed treats, such as scrumptious cookies , mouthwatering cupcakes , and gooey caramel apples . Some households go the extra mile and prepare special treat bags filled with assorted goodies for the little trick-or-treaters.

An emerging trend in recent years is the rising popularity of healthier alternatives like fruit snacks and individually packaged snacks. These cater to diverse dietary restrictions, offering options that are gluten-free , vegan , and nut-free .

The presence of candy and treats undoubtedly contributes to the enchanting and festive ambiance of Halloween, bringing immense delight not only to children, but adults as well.

How to Create a Halloween PowerPoint Presentation?

Photo Credits: Rickyshalloween.Com by Dennis Martin

Looking to create a spooktacular Halloween PowerPoint presentation that will leave your audience spellbound ? In this section, we’ll uncover the secrets to crafting a hauntingly good presentation. From choosing the perfect Halloween-themed theme and design to adding spine-chilling graphics and animations, we’ll walk you through the steps to captivate your audience. Get ready to create a bewitching presentation that will have everyone under your PowerPoint spell !

Choosing a Theme and Design

When creating a Halloween PowerPoint presentation, it’s important to choose a theme and design that aligns with Halloween and your presentation topic. This step sets the tone and enhances the visual appeal. Consider the following tips:

1. Relevance: Select a theme that aligns with Halloween and your presentation topic. Choose spooky , haunted , or festive designs to capture the essence of the holiday.

2. Color scheme: Use Halloween-associated colors like black , orange , purple , and green . These colors create a sense of mystery and fun that is perfect for Halloween.

3. Fonts: Opt for clear and bold fonts that are easy to read. You can consider Halloween-inspired fonts or add spooky effects to make your text more engaging.

4. Backgrounds: Utilize Halloween-themed backgrounds such as haunted houses, bats, pumpkins, or witches. These visuals create an engaging backdrop for your presentation.

5. Visual elements: Incorporate Halloween-themed images, animations, and graphics to enhance the visual appeal. Include bats, ghosts, skeletons, or witches to make your presentation more visually interesting.

Here are some theme and design suggestions to get you started:

– Haunted Mansion: Utilize dark backgrounds, spooky fonts, and images of haunted mansions to create an eerie atmosphere that is perfect for Halloween.

– Pumpkin Patch: Incorporate bright orange backgrounds, pumpkin illustrations, and playful fonts to capture the essence of a pumpkin patch and bring a festive touch to your presentation.

– Witch’s Brew: Use mystical backgrounds, cauldron visuals, and witch-themed fonts to create a magical vibe that will enchant your audience.

– Ghostly Night: Utilize a dark background with ghostly figures, floating objects, and creepy fonts to evoke a sense of mystery and keep your audience engaged.

– Zombie Apocalypse: Create a post-apocalyptic theme with grungy backgrounds, blood splatters, and zombie-themed fonts to give your presentation a unique and thrilling touch.

Remember, the theme and design should complement your content and engage your audience in the Halloween spirit. Happy designing!

Creating Content Slides

When creating content slides for a Halloween PowerPoint presentation, follow these steps for an engaging and cohesive presentation:

1. Organize main ideas and key points. Outline the structure of the presentation for a clear flow of information.

2. Design each slide with a consistent layout and theme. Use Halloween-themed backgrounds or colors for a festive atmosphere.

3. Keep text concise and to the point. Use bullet points or short sentences to convey information effectively.

4. Incorporate visuals like images or illustrations to enhance the slides’ visual appeal. Choose Halloween-related graphics that are relevant.

5. Add animations or transitions sparingly to create a dynamic presentation. They should not distract from the main message.

To make your content slides impactful, consider these suggestions:

– Use storytelling techniques to engage and make the presentation memorable.

– Include relevant statistics or data to support points and add credibility.

– Incorporate interactive elements like quizzes or polls to actively involve the audience.

– End each slide with a clear takeaway or call to action to resonate with the audience.

By following these steps and incorporating these suggestions, you can create compelling content slides for your Halloween PowerPoint presentation.

Using Halloween-themed Graphics and Animations

Using Halloween-themed Graphics and Animations can greatly enhance the visual appeal and engagement of your PowerPoint presentation. Here are some tips for effectively incorporating them:

1. Choose Halloween-themed graphics: When selecting images, symbols, and icons for your presentation, opt for those that align with the content and theme. This can include pumpkins, ghosts, witches, bats, or haunted houses.

2. Create impactful animations: Utilize animated effects to bring your graphics to life. For example, you can make a ghost float or a pumpkin carve itself. Be cautious not to overuse animations and strive to maintain a professional balance.

3. Integrate transitions: Apply Halloween-themed transitions between slides to ensure a consistent and cohesive theme. Consider using spooky dissolve effects or spiderweb wipe transitions.

4. Add motion to text: To make your slides more engaging, animate the text. You can achieve this by using effects like fading in or out, flying in from different directions, or even having the text shake like a ghostly apparition.

5. Use audio effects: To enhance the Halloween ambiance, incorporate sound effects such as eerie background music, creaking doors, or howling winds. The choice of audio effects should align with the tone and subject of your presentation.

By incorporating Halloween-themed graphics and animations , you can create a visually captivating presentation that embodies the holiday spirit. Remember to ensure that your design and animations remain consistent with the content and tone of your presentation to maintain professionalism.

In terms of its historical origins, Halloween can be traced back to the Celtic festival of Samhain. This festival believed that the boundary between the living and the dead was blurred on November 1st. To ward off spirits, people would light bonfires and wear costumes. Over time, Halloween merged with All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, which focused on remembrance of the deceased and judgment day. Today, Halloween is celebrated through activities such as dressing up, trick-or-treating, carving jack-o’-lanterns, and visiting haunted houses.

Adding Multimedia Elements

When creating a Halloween PowerPoint presentation, incorporating multimedia elements can enhance visual appeal and engagement. Here are some ways to include multimedia:

1. Images : Include high-quality, Halloween-themed images that complement your content. Use visuals relevant to the topic or key points, such as pumpkins, ghosts, witches, or spooky backgrounds.

2. Animations : Utilize animations to bring your slides to life. Add entrance or exit animations to text or images for visual interest and a dynamic presentation.

3. Videos : Embed Halloween-themed videos to provide additional context or entertainment. Include clips of Halloween movies, spooky animations, or tutorials for Halloween crafts and decorations.

4. Audio : Incorporate sound effects or background music to enhance the presentation atmosphere. Use eerie or suspenseful music to create a spooky ambiance, or include sound effects like creaking doors or ghostly whispers.

5. Transitions : Utilize Halloween-themed transitions between slides to add creativity. Choose transitions like fade, dissolve, or slide effects that align with the Halloween theme.

By incorporating multimedia elements, your Halloween PowerPoint presentation can be visually captivating and engaging for the audience.

Presenting with Confidence

To present with confidence, follow these tips for presenting with confidence:

1. Prepare and practice your presentation thoroughly. Rehearse your content, know your material, and anticipate potential challenges. This will help you feel more confident and knowledgeable about what you are presenting.

2. Speak clearly and project your voice. Use confident body language, maintain eye contact, and vary your tone and pitch. These non-verbal cues will help you come across as more confident and engaging.

3. Use visual aids effectively. Create clear and visually appealing slides that support your key points. Visual aids can enhance your presentation and make it more engaging for your audience.

4. Engage with your audience. Encourage interaction, ask questions, and create a conversational atmosphere. This will help you establish a connection with your audience and make them feel more engaged and involved in your presentation.

5. Stay calm and composed. Manage your nerves, visualize success, and maintain a confident posture. Taking deep breaths and visualizing a successful presentation can help you stay calm and confident throughout.

Remember, confidence comes with practice and experience. Keep honing your presentation skills and believe in your ability to deliver a successful and confident presentation. With these tips, you will be able to present with confidence and leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Halloween is a holiday celebrated on October 31st in various countries including the United Kingdom, Ireland, the United States, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, and other parts of the world. It is associated with activities like trick-or-treating, wearing costumes, attending costume parties, ghost tours, bonfires, visiting haunted attractions, reading scary stories, and watching horror films.

What is the origin of Halloween?

The word “Halloween” comes from the holiday “All Hallows’ Eve” celebrated on October 31st, which was the day before “All Saints’ Day” celebrated on November 1st. In ancient times, October 31st was the eve of the Celtic New Year and the Celts held the festival of Samhain to honor the Celtic lord of the dead. Samhain also marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the cold, dark time of the year.

How did Halloween traditions evolve in North America?

Halloween in North America is a result of a combination of Native American and European autumn traditions. These include storytelling, dancing, parties, games, art, and seasonal foods. Over time, Halloween in North America has become a time of celebration and superstition, with activities such as trick-or-treating, wearing costumes, and carving jack-o’-lanterns.

What are some Halloween superstitions?

Halloween superstitions include finishing journeys before sunset, putting a sprig of rosemary and a sixpence under the pillow to dream of a future husband, and seeing a ghost if a candle flame goes out. These superstitions have been passed down through generations and vary in different cultures.

What is the significance of costume parties on Halloween?

Halloween costumes traditionally represent monsters such as ghosts, skeletons, witches, and devils, but can also be based on characters from television shows, films, and pop culture icons. Costume parties are a fun way for people to dress up and express their creativity while embracing the spooky and playful spirit of Halloween.

What are some popular Halloween attractions?

Haunted attractions are a popular part of Halloween celebrations. They include haunted houses, haunted hayrides, and haunted mazes where people can experience scares and thrills. Ghost tours are also common, providing an opportunity to explore spooky locations and learn about local legends and paranormal activities.

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About the author.

Ricky Rawlins

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The Origins of Halloween Traditions

October 26, 2021

Posted by: Heather Thomas

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Carving pumpkins, trick-or-treating, and wearing scary costumes are some of the time-honored traditions of Halloween. Yet, the Halloween holiday has its roots in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain (a Gaelic word pronounced “SAH-win”), a pagan religious celebration to welcome the harvest at the end of summer, when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts. In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as a time to honor saints. Soon after, All Saints Day came to incorporate some of the traditions of Samhain. The evening before All Saints Day was known as All Hallows Eve , and later, Halloween. Here is a look at the origins of some of the classic Halloween traditions we know today.

Carving Jack-o’-Lanterns

The tradition of carving Jack-o’-Lanterns originated in Ireland using turnips instead of pumpkins. It is allegedly based on a legend about a man named Stingy Jack who repeatedly trapped the Devil and only let him go on the condition that Jack would never go to Hell. But when Jack died, he learned that Heaven did not want his soul either, so he was forced to wander the Earth as a ghost for eternity. The Devil gave Jack a burning lump of coal in a carved-out turnip to light his way. Locals eventually began carving scary faces into their own turnips to frighten away evil spirits.

Seeing Ghosts

The festival of Samhain marked the transition to the new year at the end of the harvest and beginning of the winter. Celtic people believed that during the festival, spirits walked the Earth. Later on, Christian missionaries introduced All Souls’ Day on November 2, which perpetuated the idea of the living coming into contact with the dead around the same time of year. 

In order to avoid being terrorized by all the evil spirits walking the Earth during Samhain, the Celts donned disguises in order to confuse the spirits and be left alone. 

Trick-or-Treating 

There is much debate around the origins of trick-or-treating, but generally there are three theories. The first theory suggests that during Samhain, Celtic people would leave food out to appease the spirits traveling the Earth at night . Over time, people began to dress as these unearthly beings in exchange for similar offerings of food and drink. 

The second theory speculates that the candy boon stems from the Scottish practice of guising, which is a secular version of “souling.” During the Middle Ages, generally children and poor adults would collect food and money from local homes in return for prayers for the dead on All Souls’ Day . Guisers dropped the prayers in favor of non-religious practices with the inclusion of songs, jokes, and other “tricks.”

A third theory argues that modern American trick-or-treating stems from “ belsnickeling ,” a German-American Christmas tradition where children would dress in costume and then call on their neighbors to see if the adults could guess the identities of the disguised. In one version of the practice, the children were rewarded with food or other treats if no one could identify them.

The idea of being spooked by black cats dates back to the Middle Ages, when these dark felines were considered a symbol of the Devil. It didn’t help that centuries later, accused witches were often found to have cats, particularly black ones. People began to believe that the cats were a witch’s “familiar” –supernatural entities that would assist in their practice of dark magic–and black cats and spookiness have been linked ever since. 

Black and Orange

The traditional Halloween colors of black and orange also traces back to the Celtic festival of Samhain. For the Celts, black represented the “death” of summer while the orange symbolized the autumn harvest season. 

Bobbing for Apples

The game of bobbing for apples has been a staple at Halloween parties for many years, but its origins are more rooted in love and romance. The game traces back to a courting ritual that was part of a Roman festival honoring Pomona , the goddess of agriculture and abundance. While multiple versions existed, the gist was that young men and women would be able to predict their future relationships based on the game. When the Romans conquered the British Isles in 43 AD, the Pomona festival blended with the similarly timed Samhain, a precursor to Halloween.

Playing pranks often varies by region, but the pre-Halloween tradition known as “ Devil’s Night ,” is credited to a different origin depending on the source. Some say that pranks started as part of May Day celebrations. But Samhain, and eventually All Souls Day, also included good-natured mischief. When Irish and Scottish immigrants came to America, they brought with them the tradition of celebrating Mischief Night as part of Halloween.

Lighting Candles and Bonfires

For much of the early history of Halloween, towering bonfires were used to light the way for souls seeking the afterlife. These days, lighting candles have generally replaced the large traditional blazes. 

Candy Apples

For centuries, people have been coating fruit in syrup as a means of preservation. But during the Roman festival of Pomona, the goddess was often represented by and associated with apples ; her name derives from the Latin word for apple “pomum” and the fruit is at the heart of harvest celebrations. It is believed that candy apples were invented accidentally in 1908 by William W. Kolb, a candymaker in Newark, New Jersey. As the story goes, Kolb was experimenting with red cinnamon candy to sell at Christmastime and he dipped apples on sticks into the red glaze and put them in his shop window to showcase his new candy. But instead of selling the candies, he ended up selling the apples to customers who thought they looked good enough to eat. They became fashionable treats for Halloween starting in the early 1900s and they remained popular up until the 1970s.

Bats were likely present at the earliest proto-Halloween celebrations, not just symbolically but literally. As part of Samhain, Celts lit large bonfires, which attracted insects, which in turn, attracted bats. Soon spotting bats became connected with the festival. Medieval folklore expanded upon the eeriness of bats with a number of superstitions built around the belief that bats were harbingers of death. 

Devouring Candy

The act of going door-to-door for handouts has long been a part of Halloween revelries. But until the mid-20th century, the “treats” children received were not necessarily candy. Things like fruit, nuts, coins, and toys were just as likely to be given out. Trick-or-treating rose in popularity in the 1950s and it inspired candy companies to market small, individually wrapped candies. People began to favor the confections out of convenience, but candy did not dominate at the exclusion of all other treats until the 1970s when parents started fearing anything unwrapped.

A candymaker at the Wunderle Candy Company in Philadelphia is sometimes credited with inventing the tri-colored candy in the 1880s. But candy corn did not become a widespread sensation until the Goelitz Company brought the candy to the masses in 1898. Candy corn was originally called “Chicken Feed” and it sold in boxes with the slogan “Something worth crowing for.” Initially, it was just an autumnal candy because of corn’s association with harvest time. Candy corn later became Halloween-specific when trick-or-treating grew in popularity in the U.S. during the 1950s. 

What are some other Halloween traditions that you enjoy? Share them in the comments.

Discover more:

• Search Chronicling America * to find more historical newspaper coverage of Halloween traditions and more!
• Use this Halloween topics page as a guide to help you with search strategies and links to related articles in Chronicling America.
• Look through this research guide on Halloween and Día de Muertos resources found at the Library of Congress created by the American Folklife Center. * The Chronicling America historic newspapers online collection is a product of the National Digital Newspaper Program and jointly sponsored by the Library and the National Endowment for the Humanities .

Comments (49)

Well thats pretty neat and such

càng thêm các mục kinh dị nữa nhé hay quá

I can’t wait anymore for Halloween.

The Romans did not conquer all of the British Isles. The couldn’t defeat Caledonia (now Scotland) and built 2 walls to keep us out.

As an older adult, I most enjoy that post Halloween (which is the pinnacle of scary costumes, purposeful spookiness, acceptable door to door begging (with the unwritten rule that if the homeowner lacks good treats – the children can toilet paper the house or light a flaming bag of dog poo, and ring the bell with no recourse, but be seen as “having done the right thing for the suckers that are too selfish”) – that what follows post Halloween are the holidays of inviting everyone to the table to enjoy a meal and great conversation as we share in the abundance of harvest and togetherness – and then requiring children to show us how good they “can” be as we determine what their end of year reward(s) for having done so might be. It’s a bizarre series of events.

why thay have wich is in Halloween movie and trik trik

Celebrations like Halloween are in conflict with Bible teachings. The Bible warns: “There must never be anyone among you who . . . practices divination, who is soothsayer, augur or sorcerer, who uses charms, consults ghosts or spirits, or calls up the dead.”—Deuteronomy 18:10, 11, The Jerusalem Bible; see also Leviticus 19:31; Galatians 5:19-21. In view of the foregoing, it is wise for you to know about the dark origins of Halloween and similar celebrations. Having this fuller understanding may move you to join many others who do not participate in these holidays.

I RLLY ENJOYED THIS TYSM FOR SHARING IT

Not a mention of this in Kansas..?

https://www.kshs.org/kansapedia/halloween/12078

Thank you so much. All most interesting. Cheers.

Candied Apples are still in style.

I think it’s everything so beaautiful.

this was very very helpful im writing a essay for school and this helped alot 5 stars out of 5 stars thanks alot for this

It’s always good to research and also be educated on topics . I don’t celebrate Halloween, but still enjoy seeing children dressed in sweet costumes. So sad those who have taken the joy out of a child’s pastime event.

i needed this for a project and got a 100 thx

i thought it was cool how it started of craving pumpkins

Article is very confuseing

Grace, Age 15

wow i lean so much from this

This article is amazing, couldn’t have read anything better in 6th block.

Halloween has been a long-time mystery that I’ve wanted to figure out. I think it’s very attractive on paper as well as literally. I think it’s one of the more obscure holidays in terms of endearment and the way it presents itself. It is so eerie but brings much joy, which is very contrasting. Overall, I do believe it’s a very enigmatic but purposeful event.

Wonderful Information

Wow 30 cents for candy my son would be die

Wonderful information

Being Irish , it drives me nuts that Americans have high-Jacked our Halloween tradition well ours and the Scots..only joking it is funny though …we original used Turnips not Pumpkins, Pumpkins are so much easy to carve. The kids dress up in scary costumes and go house to house in search of sweets (candy) but we don’t do trick or treat.We do bobbing for apples & also we also duck for money in a basin of water. Finally , we make a special cake its a spiced tea bracket called a Barm Brack. You normally put money in it and a ring.Halloween wasn’t very popular in the UK when I was young but now its huge thanks to the US. Cheers

Just an observation as I am looking in to this to understand the origin for personal research purposes. For the “seeing ghosts” subheading it says that christians are the ones who introduced “All Souls Day” however the link provided shows a news paper article labeled “The Catholic Times.” Just wanted to point that out as some would argue that though fundamentally they have the same belief, their traditions and culture are quite different.

TLDR: It was the Catholics, not the Christians who included “All Souls Day” in the picture. I just like things to be specific.

Why do people think Halloween is Satanic. This is not true at all.

I want halloween already

add something about salem and there witch trials

i like pumpkins

Zoie, that is a totally different subject.

Jeff M, Halloween does not go against what is written in the Bible. There may be some religions or groups that conjure, worship dark spirits, etc, etc. That is totally different than what Halloween is. Please re-read article for a better understanding.

Why didn’t you mention that the druids on All Hallows Eve sacrificed children and black cats in the bonfire to the God of the Dead

Joe, Catholics are Christians…

Except ancient pagan Celts had been destroyed by the Romans in the 1st c. AD and All Saints Day was originally on May 13 and had nothing whatever to do with Samhain. See https://aquinasonline.com/2021/10/27/is-halloween-a-pagan-festival/

do this festival bring bad luck to people’s homes.?

Bonfires are still very much a part of holloween in Ireland so much so firefighters are not allowed to take holidays on this day and it is generally their busiest day of the year .

I think this article was well done. Very helpful for understanding the origins of many Halloween traditions. This is a great resource for explaining Halloween’s roots to those who claim that celebrating it is sinful. I’m a Christian from a Christian home and we’ve always celebrated Halloween, and that does not make us “evil” or “false” or “misguided”. It’s the presentation of the holiday that has been manipulated by sin, not the holiday itself. God has warned us to guard our hearts and told us to show Christ in all we do, so we can still celebrate Halloween joyfully as long as we’re being wise and mindful. The evil is in devil worship and pagan systems, not in thrilling decorations and dressing up and trick-or-treating and staying out late. There are many believers who condemn their fellow Christians for celebrating Halloween and this is so wrong! Some of them find Halloween sinful merely because they don’t really know its history, which is why articles like this are incredibly helpful! (Also, of course, alongside evidence from the Bible!) The traditions of Halloween vary in different places in the world, but as long as you stay away from anything that’s satanic or willfully harmful to others, you can celebrate Halloween in whatever way you’re most comfortable! If you still choose not to celebrate, that’s okay! Just know that you have the freedom to celebrate if you want to, and that it’s not okay to bash on others who do make that choice! Thanks again for this article. I hope anyone who reads it will learn something new! I also hope that anyone who reads this comment will feel encouraged or enlightened by what I wanted to share! Super excited to celebrate Halloween and I pray for safety and joy for everyone who’s going to be trick-or-treating this year! :)

now I love Halloween what are you for Halloween?

I LOVE HALLOWEEN ITS SO SPOOKY

hap hallween every1

I used to love to dress up in a scary costume and go out Trick or Treating on Halloween night with my pillow case and get lots of candy

very nice I feel well informed

If you add All Souls’ Day , all saints Day, contacting the Dead, Ghost and Goblins, Witch’s and superstitions about Black Cats, Tricks and Treats which one has to be very careful about the treats nowadays, you surely don’t have anything good about Halloween, so as a Born Again Believer in JESUS CHRIST I will not participate in Halloween or any other holiday connected to Satan and Satanic activities. Fall Festival’s, Trunk and Treat, along with other things the so called Church has on Halloween, I don’t participate in either. Have you time with evil and I’ll try my best to follow the HOLY WORD OF GOD AND THE LEADERSHIP AND GUIDANCE OF GOD THE HOLY SPIRIT.

All the free candy Getting to be a character Making your own costumes The darkness of the night Craftiness of my company Getting to be out with your friends Looking at house decorations Going for a walk in the neighborhoods

Celebrating halloween shouldn’t be allowed, who else thinks so? There to much drug candy these days.

I think this relates to Ancient Rome because they both have something to do with religous thoughts. Like they created a day to “scare” away the ghost that came back to earth to visit.

Enjoyable to read! Fun history! I read somewhere that on Oct 31, the “veil” between heaven & earth, or the living & the dead is lifted & spirits of the dead are allowed, on that one night, to roam the earth.

Awesome article.

I love the pictures of the kids in costume.

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History of Halloween: Engaging…

History of Halloween: Engaging Presentation & Trivia Game

Explore fascinating history of Halloween with this engaging presentation and trivia game, perfect for middle school teachers, captivating students with origins, customs, and festivities – suitable for any class setting.

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Seeking an enthralling and in-depth approach to teaching your middle school students about Halloween’s history? Discover our spooktacular educational resource on the history of Halloween, designed to captivate the minds of young learners. Explore Halloween’s ancient roots, from the Celtic celebration of Samhain to the Roman Empire’s lasting impact on today’s festivities.

Our expertly crafted curriculum combines stimulating activities and provocative discussions, sparking your students’ curiosity and enhancing their comprehension of this beloved holiday. Our resource investigates witches, trick-or-treating, jack-o’-lanterns, and more, tracing Halloween’s journey to the shores of the United States.

Students will uncover the origins of Halloween, the reasons behind costumes and pumpkin carving, and the evolution of these rituals over time. Seize this unparalleled opportunity to animate your classroom with the rich history of Halloween—don’t let this chance pass you by!

But the fun doesn’t stop there! We’ve also included an exciting and interactive trivia game, designed to reinforce the lessons your students learn in the first half of the presentation. The game is challenging and engaging, with questions that cover a wide range of topics related to Halloween. Correct answers allow students to move forward, while incorrect answers send them back to try again. This game can be played as a full class, or you can share the Google Slides version of the activity with students and let them play in groups or individually.

THIS ACTIVITY IS FOR ALL TEACHERS:

And the best part? Our presentation is not just for history class! Whether you’re a social studies teacher, English teacher, art teacher, or drama teacher, you can easily incorporate the presentation and trivia game into your curriculum. Our versatile teaching resource is ideal for students in grades 7-9 and can be adapted for younger or older students.

If you’re looking for an entertaining and informative way to teach your students about the history of Halloween, our comprehensive teaching resource is just what you need. Order now and discover the rich cultural heritage behind this beloved holiday with your students!

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• PowerPoint file (includes presentation and trivia)
• Link to Google Slides version

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Our comprehensive teaching resource comes in two versions: PowerPoint and Google Slides. When using either version, it’s important to view the resource in “slide show” view to fully immerse your students in the presentation and for the trivia to work properly.

To get started, begin by teaching your students about the fascinating history of Halloween using the first part of our presentation. Engage your students by asking them questions and expanding on each slide, encouraging them to participate and ask questions of their own. This interactive approach is sure to keep your students fully engaged and immersed in the rich cultural history of the holiday.

Once you’ve completed the history lesson, it’s time for the exciting and interactive trivia game! This fun game is designed to reinforce the lessons learned from the first part of the presentation, and can be played individually or in teams. You can even keep score on a classroom board, adding a fun competitive element to the learning experience.

WANT TO LEARN ABOUT THE HISTORY OF HALLOWEEN?

Visit the Lessons in Humanities blog and learn about the History of Halloween by reading “Halloween: A Brief History for the Curious Middle School Mind ”

For more information on the history of Halloween plus a library of primary sources that can supplement this resource, visit the Library of Congress .

If you have any questions, please contact us at [email protected]

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Halloween - Origins and Around the World

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6 November 2015

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History of Halloween

Jul 27, 2014

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History of Halloween. By : Krista Multimedia Design, 3 rd period 10-25-12. How did Halloween get its n ame?. Halloween, originally spelled Hallowe’en , got its name from All Hallows Eve. It means the day before All Hallows Day, which is known as All Saints Day.

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History of Halloween By: Krista Multimedia Design, 3rd period 10-25-12

How did Halloween get its name? • Halloween, originally spelled Hallowe’en, got its name from All Hallows Eve. It means the day before All Hallows Day, which is known as All Saints Day. • The prehistoric holiday is said to mark the end of summer and the beginning of winter. It was celebrated with eating, bonfires, and respect to the dead. • http://urbanlegends.about.com/od/halloween/a/History-Of-Halloween.htm

When did Halloween start to be celebrated? • The best evidence shows Halloween originated In the Early Middle Ages as a Catholic vigil witnessed on the day before All Saints Day, which is November 1st. • http://urbanlegends.about.com/od/halloween/a/History-Of-Halloween.htm

What is the connection between Salem and Halloween? (Next 2 slides) • Salem and Halloween are not connected.

Salem • The Salem Witch Craft Trials happened in colonial Massachusetts between 1692 and 1693. Over 200 people were blamed of witchcraft, which is known as Devil’s Magic, and 20 people were killed. The colony confessed that the trials were an error and they paid back the families of the people who were sentenced. • http://www.smithsonianmag.com/history-archaeology/brief-salem.html

Halloween • Halloween’s beginning dates back to the early Celtic festival of Samhain. The Celts lived in the area that is now known as Ireland, The United Kingdom, and northern France. • The Celts celebrated November 1st as their New Year. The day is marked as the end of summer and the harvest, but it marked the beginning of the cold winter. Winter was related with the death of humans. • On October 31st, they celebrated Samhain, it was believed that the ghosts of the dead came back to Earth. As part of the event they built holy bonfires, people joined together to burn crops and animals as sacrificesto the Celt gods. • http://www.history.com/topics/halloween

How old is too old to go trick-or-treating? • I don’t think that any age is “too old” to go trick-or-treating. If you like going and you have fun while doing it, then I think that you should go. You get to dress up, go out, and get different types of treats. It can be a fun night for everyone.

Why are black and orange the colors that are used to represent Halloween? BLACK! • Halloween was, and still is in some places, a festival for the dead. Death is usually linked with darkness and absence of light indicated by the color Black. • Black cats, witches, and cauldrons are a few things that remind people of Halloween. • Halloween is mainly celebrated at night. • http://www.allaboutpopularissues.org/origin-of-halloween-colors-faq.htm

Orange! • The Celtics are given the most credit for beginning the holiday as a festival of the harvest, so they chose they color Orange to represent Autumn. Orange, the most dominant autumn color, came from the pumpkin and the leaves during fall. • A lot of people use pumpkins that they have hallowed out as urns or vases to hold masses of fall mums or they carve them into ghoulish or scary jack-o-lanterns with candles lit inside of them at night to make an eerie glow. • http://www.allaboutpopularissues.org/origin-of-halloween-colors-faq.htm

What do pumpkins have to do with Halloween? • People carve scary faces into the pumpkins at Halloween time and they call these pumpkins “Jack-o-lanterns” because it goes back to the legend of “Stingy Jack”. • http://www.history.com/topics/jack-olantern-history

What is the story behind the legend of Jack-o-lantern and where did it get its name? • The Legend of "Stingy Jack" • “People have been making jack-o'-lanterns at Halloween for centuries. The practice originated from an Irish myth about a man nicknamed "Stingy Jack." According to the story, Stingy Jack invited the Devil to have a drink with him. True to his name, Stingy Jack didn't want to pay for his drink, so he convinced the Devil to turn himself into a coin that Jack could use to buy their drinks. Once the Devil did so, Jack decided to keep the money and put it into his pocket next to a silver cross, which prevented the Devil from changing back into his original form. Jack eventually freed the Devil, under the condition that he would not bother Jack for one year and that, should Jack die, he would not claim his soul. The next year, Jack again tricked the Devil into climbing into a tree to pick a piece of fruit. While he was up in the tree, Jack carved a sign of the cross into the tree's bark so that the Devil could not come down until the Devil promised Jack not to bother him for ten more years. • Soon after, Jack died. As the legend goes, God would not allow such an unsavory figure into heaven. The Devil, upset by the trick Jack had played on him and keeping his word not to claim his soul, would not allow Jack into hell. He sent Jack off into the dark night with only a burning coal to light his way. Jack put the coal into a carved-out turnip and has been roaming the Earth with ever since. The Irish began to refer to this ghostly figure as "Jack of the Lantern," and then, simply "Jack O'Lantern." • In Ireland and Scotland, people began to make their own versions of Jack's lanterns by carving scary faces into turnips or potatoes and placing them into windows or near doors to frighten away Stingy Jack and other wandering evil spirits. In England, large beets are used. Immigrants from these countries brought the jack o'lantern tradition with them when they came to the United States. They soon found that pumpkins, a fruit native to America, make perfect jack-o'-lanterns” • http://www.history.com/topics/jack-olantern-history

Why couldn’t carved pumpkins be used for Halloween in Ireland in the 14th century? • Carved pumpkins couldn’t be used for Halloween in Ireland during the 14th century because pumpkins are native to America and they didn’t get cultured in Europe until the 16th century. • http://seanbanville.com/2011/10/14/100-questions-for-halloween/

What vegetable was originally used for Jack-o-lanterns? • Turnips were originally used for Jack-o-lanterns instead of pumpkins. It is said that they were used because they resembled skeleton heads. They were thought to contain wisdom and the spirit, they were placed by the door to scare demons away by the Celts. • http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_vegetable_was_originally_used_to_make_a_Jack_o_lantern

Fun facts about Halloween! • Halloween is the second highest earning commercial holiday, after Christmas. • Samhainophobiameans the fear of Halloween. • The largest pumpkin ever measured was grown by Norm Craven. It broke the world record in 1993 with a 836 pound pumpkin. • Ireland is believed to be the birthplace of Halloween. • Children are more than twice likely to be killed in a pedestrian/car accident on Halloween than any other night. • http://facts.randomhistory.com/halloween-facts.html

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