It was several years ago now, I guess 2019, that I read The Halloween Tree by Ray Bradbury. In it, the children learn about Halloween traditions in a ghostly tour through history. Widely celebrated, the holiday is filled with costumes, jack-o’-lanterns, and trick-or-treating, and has a rich and intriguing past that spans centuries. Originating from ancient Celtic rituals, this holiday has evolved over time to become the beloved festivity we know today.
The origins of Halloween can be traced back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, which marked the end of the harvest season and the onset of winter. Held on the eve of November 1st, Samhain was believed to be a time when the boundary between the living and the dead was blurred. The Celts would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off roaming spirits.
With the spread of Christianity, the celebration of Samhain merged with the Christian holiday of All Hallows’ Eve, which honored the saints and martyrs. As a result, the festival came to be known as “Hallows’ Even,” eventually evolving into Halloween.
All that is to say, Happy Halloween today. And be safe.
Michael's Musings 