Allhallow-even - the last night of the year in the old Celtic calendar, where it was Old Year's Night, a night for witches.It used to be an autumn festival, an "End of summer" feast, when bonfires were lit to ward off evil spirits. The Celts believed that the veil between the worlds of life and death is thin on this night. Because of this it is easier to communicate with spirits, especially those of the deceased.
Halloween has suffered a lot! It used to be a day of Pagan Festivities, but it was baptised in the ninth century and sent on its way... It found its way to North America in the nineteenth century carried by Irish and Scottish immigrants. What has happened to the old customs here? They have been misunderstood!
3 comments:
Yes, indeed. Halloween has changed a lot from what it used to be in the old days. Even here in Bangkok, all pubs were roaring with Halloween parties and fancy costumes!
halloween could definately go without the North Amercian's taste for cheap plastic costuming.
religious holidays in general could use less consumption, and more reflection.
Hey, there's hope yet! This year in Scotland, Halloween festival organisers said they wanted to "move away from US-style celebrations, in favour of more culturally accurate traditions"
Post a Comment