Fascinating History of Halloween: 7 Fun Facts & Global Traditions

Halloween dates back over 2,000 years to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, marking the end of the harvest and the start of winter.

1. Ancient Celtic Origins  text

2. The Rise of Jack-o'-Lanterns 

Originally, the Irish carved turnips instead of pumpkins. The switch to pumpkins happened in America due to the abundance of the vegetable 

3. All Hallows’ Eve y

Halloween was once called "All Hallows' Eve," the night before the Christian celebration of All Saints' Day on November  

4. Mexico’s Día de los Muertos 

In Mexico, Halloween coincides with Día de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, where families honor deceased loved ones with altars and offerings.

5. Japan’s Kawasaki Halloween Parade 

Japan’s largest Halloween celebration, held in Kawasaki, features elaborate costumes and attracts over 100,000 spectators each year.

By Mary Apartment

June 29, 2020

6. Germany’s Halloween Ban 

Some regions in Germany discourage Halloween, claiming it’s a commercial invasion that conflicts with their traditional All Saints' Day customs.

By Mary Apartment

June 29, 2020

7. The American Trick-or-Treat Tradition 

By Mary Apartment

June 29, 2020

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The trick-or-treating custom in America became popular in the 1930s and 1940s, influenced by Scottish and Irish immigrant traditions.

By Fern Greenthumb January 31, 2020

Halloween Festival