Home > Entertainment and Activities > Holidays > Halloween > Halloween Fun and Activities > The Spooktacular History of Halloween

Slideshow Iconslideshows MORE

|

The Spooktacular History of Halloween

by Lindsay Hutton

Halloween is not just about dressing up in costumes and asking for candy! It's a holiday steeped in folklore and customs. From carving pumpkins to trick or treating, each ghoulish tradition has its own fascinating tale.

Previous
1 of 9
Halloween candy and carved pumpkins

The Origins of Halloween


Although it only became popular in America in the early 1900's, Halloween dates back almost 2,000 years when it marked the Celtic New Year. Originally known as Samhain, which means "summer's end" in Gaelic, many Halloween customs and traditions have roots in pagan beliefs and Irish folklore. These customs became popular in America when many Irish fled their country to escape the potato famine of 1846.

Next: Jack o' Lanterns

stay connected

Sign up for our free email newsletters and receive the latest advice and information on all things parenting.

Enter your email address to sign up or manage your account.

Facebook icon Twitter icon Follow Us on Pinterest

editor’s picks

highlights

Top 10 End-of-Year Teacher Gifts
School is in the final stretch! Find unique and sweet teacher appreciation gifts to help say thanks and farewell to your favorite educator at the end of the school year.

10 Most Common Pregnancy Cravings Decoded
Sweet, salty, sour, spicy — cravings during pregnancy can run the gamut. Read on to find out what foods pregnant women crave the most and why.

Safest Sunscreens for Kids
Wondering what the best sunscreens are to use on your child? Check out these natural sunscreens for kids. They're chemical-free and will keep your child safe from the sun’s harmful rays.

Are Your Kids Sick of Sandwiches for Lunch?
By this point in the school year, your kids are probably tired of the same old sandwiches. Find some new and different school lunch ideas that will help fuel your child through June.