Halloween in the United States

Date: October 31st

History:

• Origins: Traces back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, which marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter.
• All Saints' Day: The holiday was Christianized as All Hallows' Eve, preceding All Saints' Day on November 1st.
• Immigration Influence: Irish and Scottish immigrants in the 19th century brought many Halloween customs to America.

Traditions:

• Costumes: People, especially children, dress up in a wide variety of costumes, ranging from spooky to whimsical characters.
• Trick-or-treating: Children go door-to-door asking for treats such as candy by saying "Trick or treat," implying they'll play a trick if no treat is given.
• Jack-o'-lanterns: Carved pumpkins with lights inside are displayed, originating from an Irish myth about a man named Stingy Jack.
• Parties: Halloween parties for both adults and children are common, featuring games (like bobbing for apples), festive foods, and themed decorations.
• Haunted Houses and Attractions: Many communities host haunted houses or spooky-themed events.

Activities:

• People often visit haunted attractions, watch horror films, tell scary stories, or attend parades (like New York City's Village Halloween Parade).
• Homeowners decorate their houses with themes ranging from creepy graveyards to family-friendly pumpkin displays.
• Some people also engage in divination games or activities historically associated with predicting one's future spouse or luck for the coming year.