Halloween, on October 31, is a night of costumes, candy, jack-o'-lanterns and spooky fun. Children go trick-or-treating, adults host costume parties, and homes are decorated with ghosts, skeletons and pumpkins. Halloween is one of America's most popular holidays, celebrated by people of all ages.
History of Halloween
Halloween's roots trace back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, celebrated in Ireland, Scotland and other regions. Samhain marked the end of the harvest and the beginning of winter, when people believed the boundary between the living and the dead was thin.
In the 8th century, the Christian church designated November 1 as All Saints' Day, also called All Hallows. The evening before became All Hallows' Eve, later shortened to Halloween. Traditions such as 'souling' and 'guising' involved going door to door for food in exchange for prayers or songs.
Irish immigrants brought Halloween traditions to America in the 1800s. Trick-or-treating became popular in the 1920s and 1930s and grew after World War II, when sugar rationing ended.
Halloween traditions have continued to evolve. Haunted houses became popular in the 20th century, and today, many communities hold 'trunk-or-treat' events in parking lots. Day of the Dead, celebrated in Mexico on November 1 and 2, is a separate holiday honoring loved ones who have died, though both occur around the same time.
Why Halloween Matters
Halloween encourages creativity, community and fun.
It brings neighbors together, as families walk door to door.
It also connects to ancient traditions and cultural history.
Halloween also encourages community spirit. Neighbors decorate homes, host block parties and hand out treats, and many towns hold costume parades and fall festivals. For people who don't celebrate, alternatives such as harvest festivals and community events offer ways to enjoy the season.
How to Celebrate Halloween
- Wear a costume: dress up as something creative.
- Go trick-or-treating: visit neighbors with family.
- Carve pumpkins: make jack-o'-lanterns.
- Host a party: decorate and play games.
- Stay safe: use reflective gear and check candy.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, hold a costume contest or decorating competition. In classrooms, students can learn about Halloween history, write spooky stories or make crafts. Be inclusive of students who don't celebrate. At home, families can carve pumpkins, make costumes and go trick-or-treating. Use reflective tape, carry flashlights and check candy for allergens. A teal pumpkin signals allergy-friendly treats.
Fun Facts About Halloween
- Halloween traces back to the Celtic festival of Samhain.
- All Hallows' Eve became Halloween.
- Trick-or-treating grew after World War II.
Halloween FAQs
When is Halloween?
Halloween is October 31.
Where did Halloween come from?
The Celtic festival of Samhain and All Hallows' Eve.
When did trick-or-treating begin?
It became popular in the 1920s and 1930s.
What is a teal pumpkin?
A sign that a home offers non-food or allergy-friendly treats.