You'll Never Believe Where Halloween Has Its Roots

Most people these days know that Halloween has a much longer history than we’ve been led to believe, and that it didn’t start with kids dressing up in Halloween costumes to go door to door for candy. All of the horror props and electronic animatronics that grace the yards and porches of family’s all over America are the latest evolution of an ancient set of traditions that stretch back into pre-history. There are countries all over the world who practice Halloween in their own special ways, and we’re going to explore a couple of them right now.

Dia de los Muertos

Most readers will be familiar with the icons of this holiday, the sugar skull, but far fewer will be aware that this is part of a rich tradition with its roots in a celebration of the dead. For three days starting on the 31st of October Mexico, Spain, and Latin America celebrate All Souls’ Day, a period of time set aside to honor those who have passed. Altars dedicated to the deceased are decorated with all sorts of things, including photographs, samples of their favorite food, candy, flowers, and more.

A bowl of water with a towel nearby so the spirit can wash their hands before feasting. The candles and incense associated with the holiday help guide the dead home, and families will often gather in graveyards to care for the resting place of their loved ones.

Guy Fawkes Day

“Remember, Remember, the fifth of November, the gunpowder treason and plot.” Fans of the movie “V for Vendetta” will recognize this little passage, as will anyone who lives in England. Guy Fawkes was a traitor to the crown who set out to destroy the reigning protestant parliament to replace it with one more to his suiting.

Guy Fawkes Day does not celebrate the man, but instead is held to commemorate his execution. Even more interesting the great bonfires they burn Mr. Fawkes effigy on each year used to be called “Bone Fires”, representing the Catholic Pope who sought to oppress England.

It’s Actual Origins in Ireland

Halloween was once called Samhain, and was indeed a celebration of the dead. The gourds that were carved out and placed in front of homes were meant as lights to ensure the dead could find their way home, and the treats given out were meant to appease the spirits so they didn’t stay and cause mischief. The family had a special place set at the table for their loved ones so they could spend the evening with them before the dead returned home before the veil thickened again.

This is just one of the ancient Pagan roots of Halloween. Throughout the world you’ll find similar stories and legends told around this time of year, spurred no doubt by the dying light of summer and the dark of winter that is about to set in. The tradition stretches long past rubber Halloween masks and costumes...but those are fun too.