Halloween Explained: History, Symbols & Must-Know Traditions

What is Halloween?

Halloween, celebrated on November 1st each year, is a traditional Western holiday. All Saints' Day, October 31st, is the most popular time of the festival. In literary history, All Saints' Day is often referred to as Halloween (All Saints' Day).

Origins of Halloween

Halloween originates from the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. According to the lunar calendar, November 1st marks the beginning of the new year and the arrival of the harsh winter. The Celts believed that the spirits of the dead would return to the human world on New Year's Eve, seeking to possess living beings and thereby gain an afterlife. To scare away these spirits, people would extinguish fires and candles and dress up as demons and monsters to scare away the spirits. This custom later evolved into Halloween.

Where Halloween is Popular

Halloween is primarily popular in the English-speaking world, such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. With increasing cultural exchange, Halloween has also spread to other countries and regions, becoming a fun and engaging holiday. On this day every year, children will wear all kinds of strange costumes, carry pumpkin lanterns, and go from house to ask for candy, which is very lively.

The Origins of Halloween

According to legend, over 2,000 years ago, the Catholic Church in Europe designated November 1st as All Saints' Day. However, starting in 500 B.C., the Celts living in Ireland, Scotland, and other regions viewed the day before this holiday, October 31st, as the end of summer and the beginning of the new year.

They believed that on this day (Samhain, derived from “Samhain”), powerful demons and spirits of the dead would descend upon the human world. Priests offered sacrifices to protect humans from disturbance. Therefore, the Celts would extinguish lights, light bonfires, and dress as ghosts to welcome the visiting spirits and demons.

On Samhain, ancient Celtic priests would perform rituals and light sacred fires to please the gods and receive blessings. During this festival, the Celts believed that the dead would return to the human world to seek rebirth through the possession of living beings. To scare away these spirits, people would extinguish fires and candles and dress as demons and spirits. This custom gradually evolved into what we know as Halloween.

In 46 BC, the Romans conquered the Celts and incorporated Celtic customs into Roman culture. In the 8th century, the Pope designated November 1st as All Saints' Day, while October 31st became All Saints' Eve.

It wasn't until the 19th century that the earliest immigrants to the United States brought Halloween customs to the country. By the early 20th century, Halloween had evolved into a holiday primarily focused on entertainment and revelry.

Halloween Customs

• Halloween Costumes

Halloween costumes are diverse and extend beyond the usual witch costumes. People also wear a variety of scary costumes, such as ghosts, vampires, and zombies, to create a mysterious and eerie atmosphere.

• Trick-or-Treating

This is a favorite activity for children. They dress in Halloween costumes and knock on their neighbors' doors in groups, shouting “Trick-or-Treat.” Homeowners often give children candy and small gifts.

• Making Jack-O'-Lanterns

Westerners believe that in ancient times, evil spirits would invade villages at night to wreak havoc. People would place candle-lit jack-o'-lanterns at their doorsteps to scare away the evil spirits. Jack-o'-lanterns come in a variety of shapes, often carved into funny or terrifying expressions, and have become a hallmark of Halloween.

• Eating Candy apples

Because Halloween falls close to the apple harvest, candy apples have become a popular seasonal treat. To make it, place an apple on a bamboo skewer, dip it in a syrup, and then roll it in the toffee syrup. Let it cool slightly before serving.

• Apple Tossing

This traditional game is also popular in the UK and Ireland. People try to catch floating apples with their mouths.

• Laying Flowers at Cemeteries

On Halloween, the French typically visit cemeteries and decorate the tombstones of their loved ones with chrysanthemums. Chrysanthemums symbolize “eternal mourning” in France, and are sold in large quantities at roadside shops near cemeteries.

The Significance of Halloween

• Historical Heritage

Halloween originated from the ancient Celtic reverence and reverence for the dead, carrying their beliefs and traditions. After centuries of evolution and its spread to Western countries, it retains some ancient Celtic elements, allowing ancient customs to be passed on in a more playful way.

• Interpretation and Respect for Life

Historically, Halloween was considered a festival steeped in mystery and the supernatural. It symbolized people's reverence for death, their love for life, and a positive attitude. This holiday reminded people to cherish the present and appreciate the preciousness of life. Through festive activities, children can learn from a young age to not fear death but to appreciate life more deeply.

• Cultural Exchange and Stress Relief

In modern society, Halloween is popular for its joy and fun, and more international celebrations have been introduced to China, serving as an important bridge for cultural exchange.

Halloween has also become a great opportunity for people to release stress and relax. Through costumes, gatherings, and socializing, people find joy in the holiday and forget the troubles of life.

From its ancient Celtic roots to its global celebration today, Halloween is a holiday steeped in mystery, creativity, and joy. Whether carving jack-o'-lanterns, trick-or-treating, or donning spooky costumes, the spirit of Halloween lives on through tradition and imagination.

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Get ready to kick off Halloween in style—Happy Halloween! 👻