Halloween Around the World

Let’s dive together into this mysterious world and discover the various ways Halloween is celebrated around the globe.

The Celtic Origins of Halloween

Before it became a holiday associated with candy and costumes, Halloween was the Celtic festival of Samhain. The Celts believed that this night marked the end of summer and the beginning of winter, as well as the opening of a door between the world of the living and the dead. Spirits were then free to roam the Earth, which is why customs were created to appease them.

Halloween in the United States: The Most Popular Celebration

It is in the United States that Halloween is most widely celebrated. Children dressed as ghosts, witches, or superheroes roam the streets shouting “Trick or treat!” to collect candy. The tradition of carving pumpkins into lanterns, known as “Jack-o’-lanterns,” is also very common.

Halloween in the United Kingdom: A Mix of Tradition and Modernity

In the United Kingdom, Halloween is becoming an increasingly popular celebration, especially among young people. The festivities are similar to those in the United States, with costume parties, pumpkin carving contests, and trick-or-treating. However, some older traditions still persist, such as the Irish Samhain festival.

Halloween in Canada: A Blend of Cultures

Canada celebrates Halloween with a unique twist, blending Anglo-Saxon traditions with local customs. Canadians enjoy dressing up and hosting costume parties, but they also place significant importance on decorating their homes with spooky elements.

Halloween in Ireland: The Roots of the Celebration

Ireland is the birthplace of Halloween. The Samhain festival has been celebrated there for centuries. The Irish enjoy gathering around a bonfire, telling ghost stories, and sharing traditional foods.

Halloween in Australia and New Zealand: An Imported Celebration

Halloween is a relatively recent holiday in Australia and New Zealand. It was imported from the United States and the United Kingdom, but quickly adapted to local cultures. Children dress up and go door-to-door asking for candy, just like in other Anglo-Saxon countries.

Why Celebrate Halloween?

Halloween is much more than just a commercial holiday. It’s an opportunity to gather with family and friends, unleash your imagination, and celebrate cultural diversity. It also allows us to preserve ancient traditions and pass on a little bit of magic and mystery to future generations.

So, are you ready to celebrate Halloween in true Anglo-Saxon style?