Halloween

Also called     All Hallows’ Eve or All Saints’ Eve
Observed by  Numerous Western countries (see article)
Type              Secular, with roots in Christian and Celtic tradition
Begins           Sunset
Ends              Midnight
Date              October 31
Celebrations Costume parties, trick-or-treating in costumes, bonfires, divination
Related to     Samhain, All Saints’ Day

Jack-o'-lantern

History

Orign of Name

The word Halloween, originally spelled Hallowe’en, is shortened from All Hallows' Even – e'en is a shortening of even, which is a shortening of evening. It is now known as "Eve of" All Saints' Day.

Symbols
Jack-o'-lantern-carving of pumpkin, is the most famous symbol of Halloween.

Traditional characters include the Devil, the Grim Reaper, ghosts, ghouls, demons, witches, goblins, vampires, werewolves, zombies, skeletons, black cats, spiders, bats, and crows.

Foods
Caramel apples or taffy apples

Created by dipping or rolling apples-on-a-stick in hot caramel, sometimes then rolling them in nuts or other small savories or confections, and allowing them to cool.


 
 

        
Barmbrack (Ireland)
A yeasted bread with added sultanas and raisins.

                      

Bonfire toffee (Britain)
Treacle toffee, is a very hard, very brittle toffee that is associated with Halloween and Guy Fawkes Night in the United Kingdom.

Candy Corn (North America)
A confection popular in the United States and Canada, particularly in autumn around Halloween.





Trick-or-treating

Children go in costume from house to house, asking for treats such as candy or sometimes money, with the question, "Trick or treat?"










Costumes

Costumes are based on themes :such as ghosts, skeletons, witches, and devils; characters from television shows, movies, and other pop culture icons.