The History of Halloween and What It Says About You

Halloween, a festival of costumes, candies, and creepy tales, holds a special place in many of our hearts. But have you ever paused to wonder about its origins? More interestingly, have you ever considered what your personal relationship with Halloween might reveal about your character? Let’s journey through the corridors of history to uncover the story of Halloween and reflect upon the mirrors it holds up to our own identities.

The Origins of Halloween: A Brief Overview

Samhain: The Celtic Roots

The history of Halloween can be traced back over 2,000 years to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain (pronounced “sow-in”). Celebrated on November 1, it marked the end of summer and the beginning of winter — a time associated with death in Celtic beliefs. They believed that on October 31, the boundaries between the worlds of the living and the dead blurred, allowing spirits to roam the earth.

To ward off any malicious spirits, the Celts would light bonfires and wear costumes, primarily animal skins. They believed these disguises would protect them by making them unrecognizable to the wandering spirits.

All Hallows’ Eve: Christian Influence