Happy Halloween, friends! Here at SSLF we’ve carved the pumpkins and put out the candy. We all know that Jack-o-lanterns, costumes, and parties are part of our Halloween traditions– but what are the historical roots of this holiday?
According to the Vatican News (one of the Vatican’s official media organizations), modern Halloween is rooted in “All Hallow’s Eve,” which is the Vigil of All Saints’ Day.
Other sources have indicated that Halloween was adapted from an older pagan holiday called Samhain. This was a feast and celebration that observed the harvest and opened the “dark half” (winter season) of the calendar. Its counterparts are Imbolc (the beginning of spring), Bealtaine (the first day of summer), and Lughnasadh (the start of the harvest season).
According to History.com, trick-or-treating originated from ancient Irish and Scottish practices where children would put on costumes, go door-to-door, and receive small cakes. Given that pumpkins are a North American plant (and thus were not accessible to ancient Celts), the original Jack-o-lanterns were actually carved from turnips. The carving of pumpkins is actually an American adaptation of traditions from Ireland and the UK!
However you celebrate it, SSLF wants to wish you a very happy Halloween! Come see us if you need any help with estate planning– or if you’d just like a piece of candy.
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