HALLOWEEN

LOOKING BACK

• Samhain(sah-win)- "summers end". This is believed to be the first trace of what we know as Halloween.
• End of harvest and light and beginning of dark and cold winter.
• Winter usually meant rise in death, which may explain a belief in the roaming dead on this day.
• Druids held fire festivals to chase/entertain spirits.
• Costumes worn to entertain or detour possession of evil entities.

PARTY DOESN'T STOP

• The Romans took the majority of Celtic land.
• Samhain became a day of honor for Pomona, roman fruit and tree goddess.
• The apple was a symbol for this honored goddess.
• Today, we bob for apples and it is believed Pamona's reverence is to thank.

CHRISTIAN INFLUENCE

• Middle Ages- vast amount of Christian converts
• Led to integration and confiscation of Pagan holidays.
• 'All Saints Day' is November 1st.
• 'All Souls Day', which better mirrors Samhain is November 2nd.
• Christian children began dressing in grizzly costumes, reflecting Danse Macbre.

HOLIDAY TAKES SHAPE

• Christianity helped holiday to modern form.
• Halloween- All Hallows' Even(Eve of All Saints Day)

SOULING

MUMMING

Strangely enough these customs faded.

WHERE DID WE GET THAT?

• Jackolantern- "will of the wisp" Ireland. Originally a turnip.
• Britain- Nov. 5, 1600's, pennies for the Guy", Bomb plan.
• 'Trick or Treat"- threat, which ignored resulted in vandalism.
• Costumes- offerings to placate gods, could be stolen.

HALLOWEEN

• Mischief and vandalism documented since 1800's.
• Reaffirmation of Death and it's place in the world.