Halloween: The Origins.

Halloween is one of the most celebrated holidays in the United States, as well as in other countries. However, the origins of this holiday are a lot more complicated than it is now. 

Over 2000 years ago, there was a group of people known as the Celts who celebrated a holiday called “Samhain,” which signifies the return of “ghosts of the dead.” This holiday circled building bonfires to keep ghosts away from their crops, and to prevent Druids from making predictions. Additionally, to tell each other’s fortunes, the Celtics used costumes made out of animal heads and skins. When the Roman Empire captured the Celtic territory, two Roman traditions were combined with Samhain. One of those traditions was named “Feralia,” where Romans recognize their loved ones who passed away, while another was to honor the Roman goddess Pomona. Pomona was symbolized by an apple, and bobbing for apples was practiced during this tradition. These various celebrations have evolved into a day where pumpkins are carved, costumes are worn, and children of many ages gather all the candy they want.

Source used: https://www.history.com/topics/halloween/history-of-halloween