Happy Halloween

Happy Halloween!  Are you ready for those trick or treaters tonight?

A little history about Halloween:

• Celtic Origins: Halloween can trace its roots back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, which was celebrated around November 1st. Samhain marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. It was believed that on the night before Samhain, the boundary between the living and the dead blurred, allowing spirits to return to the earthly realm. People lit bonfires and wore costumes to ward off malevolent spirits.

• Christian Influence: In the 7th century, the Christian Church established All Saints' Day on November 1st to honor saints and martyrs. The evening before became known as All Hallows' Eve, and later, Halloween.

• Incorporation of Traditions: As Christianity spread, it often absorbed and adapted local traditions. Many customs from Samhain found their way into Halloween, such as the lighting of bonfires, wearing costumes, and the belief in supernatural beings.

• Irish and Scottish Immigration: Halloween was brought to the United States by Irish and Scottish immigrants in the 19th century. In America, it began to take on a more secular and community-oriented character, with elements like pumpkin carving and trick-or-treating.

• Commercialization and Modern Traditions: By the early 20th century, Halloween had become a secular, community-based holiday. It evolved into a celebration with parties, parades, and the iconic practice of children going door to door for candy, which came to be known as "trick-or-treating." The Halloween industry also began to flourish, with the sale of costumes, decorations, and candies.

Enjoy those Ghosts, Goblins and Barbie Costumes tonight.