Halloween traditions of pumpkins and costumes originate from the Celtic festival Samhain.

History of Halloween

Halloween dates back to the Celtic farming festival Samhain.  As the crops died at the end of the harvest season, farmers believed there was a day when spirits could rise from their graves.  During Samhain, people would dress in disguise to fool and ward off the spirits,  and hope that their land would survive through the winter.

In the eighth century, Christians sought to transform the pagan holiday.  Pope Gregory III declared Nov. 1 to be the feast of All Saints’ Day.  The night before became known as All Hollow’s Eve.

Modern Halloween traditions and folklore first came to America in the 19 th century with  the influx of Irish immigrants.  Carving turnips and turning them into lanterns was one of the Irish customs that honored the souls stuck in purgatory.  Since pumpkins were easier to carve than turnips, this ritual adapted into jack-o-lanterns as All Hollow’s Eve celebrations took shape in America.

The big business of Halloween boomed during the 20 th century.  Mass produced costumes, candy and decorations meant big profits.

According to the National Retail Federation, the top five  costumes of 2011 for adults are a witch, pirate, vampire, zombie and Batman character.  The top five  for children are princess, witch, Spiderman, pirate and pumpkin.  The most popular pet costumes are pumpkin, devil and hot dog.

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Famous Birthdays

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1950 John Candy

1961 Peter Jackson

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1966 Adrock

1966 Mike O’Malley

1967 Vanilla Ice

2000 Willow Smith

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