History of Halloween

by Lillyana Knox

Halloween is an infamous holiday celebrated by giving and getting candy while dressing up as almost anything you can think of. It is a holiday that all people can enjoy. Whether you like scary movies then having nightmares, maybe you're a fan of the warm but chilly weather, the orange and red leaves, the smell of cinnamon, carving pumpkins, or you’re simply in it for the candy. No matter what, there’s something for everyone on this spooky holiday. But the beginning of Halloween isn’t as well known as the beloved holiday itself. Unbeknownst to most, Halloween was first created by the Celts who believed that October 31 was the bridge between the living and the dead. People would light large bonfires and wore animal costumes to ward off wandering ghosts. 

Then there’s the Christian influence on Halloween. The Catholic Church made November 1st a day to honor saints. This day was called All-hallows, making Halloween known as “All Hallows’ Eve”, which was later shortened to “Halloween.” However, this wasn’t popularized in America until the 19th century when Irish and Scottish immigrants brought Halloween traditions to America when they escaped the potato famine in the 1840s. Then by the 20th century, Halloween had evolved into a celebration with costumes, parties, and trick-or-treating.