Halloween
originates with the Celtic day of the dead called
Samhein
(pronounced "sow-win"). On this day, the spirits of the dead were said to
be able to interact with the living. To keep these spirits happy, the
Celts would give them gifts of food and drink. This celebration also
featured "mumming" - people would dress up in costume and go from house to
house, performing short plays or singing for treats.
The Catholic Church tried to replace this pagan festival with their own
holiday, All Hallows Eve. "Hallows" means holy. Soon All Hallows Eve was
shortened to "Hallow Evening" and eventually "Halloween".
Participants would dress up as saints, angels, or devils for celebration
and have bonfires, parades, and treats. These practices, along with the
"mumming", have morphed over the years into the Halloween we know (and
love) today.
For even more spooky fun, visit
Trick or Treat? Halloween History
