Why Do We Celebrate Halloween?
Halloween, celebrated on October 31st, originated from ancient Celtic traditions, particularly the festival of Samhain, marking the end of harvest season and the beginning of winter. Its a time when it was believed that the boundary between the living and the dead was blurred, allowing spirits to return to the world.
How it began!
As Christianity spread, the Church attempted to replace pagan festivals with Christian observances. In the 8th century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as All Saints' Day, incorporating some Samhain traditions. The evening before became known as All Hallows' Eve, which eventually morphed into Halloween.
In the United States, Halloween gained popularity in the 19th century, particularly among Irish immigrants fleeing the potato famine. They brought their traditions, which evolved into modern practices like trick-or-treating, carving pumpkins (originally turnips), and wearing costumes.
