Samhain & Celtic RootsNo. 6078 · The 2026 edition
The History of Halloween
Ever wondered how the spooky holiday we love today came to be? From ancient Celtic fires to modern candy hunts, discover the fascinating journey of Halloween's most beloved traditions.
Our own summary of the original — the full post and photos live at en.wikivoyage.org.
This article explores the rich history of Halloween, tracing its roots back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. It details how the holiday evolved through Roman influences and Christian observances, eventually transforming into the secular celebration we know today. Key points include the origins of trick-or-treating, the significance of costumes, and the commercialization of the holiday in the 20th century.
About this
An overview of the origins and evolution of Halloween traditions.
Facts from the original
- The festival of Samhain was celebrated on November 1st.
- The tradition of trick-or-treating began in the 1920s.
- Jack-o'-lanterns originally used turnips in Ireland and Scotland.
From the original
Halloween has its roots in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, where people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts.
