MAIN Home Life Holidays Halloween History

Trick or treating, bobbing for apples, carving pumpkins - and eating lots of holiday treats - are all a big part of a modern Halloween.

But where did all this stuff come from, and why do celebrate all that is dark and scary?

Check out Halloween trivia & fun facts, and learn more about the holiday that probably dates back beyond recorded history ...

The History of Halloween - A fun, popular read for kids of all ages, including origins and traditions, worldwide celebrations, favorite hauntings in American history and more fun facts.

Ben & Jerry's History of Halloween - The ice cream makers' site and lots of fun for kids with a serious history that takes readers on a journey from the ancient Celts on up to the Festivals of the Dead celebrated around the world.

Samhain - The ancient Celtic holiday as the basis for Halloween, with descriptions of pagan rituals and beliefs including apple magic and the bonfires that blazed throughout a Celtic autumn.

Halloween in the Middle Ages - A good overview of the transformation from pagan to Christian beliefs in a brief history of how "All Hallows Eve" became "Halloween."

History of Halloween: Myths, Monsters and Devils - A detailed discussion tracing the holidays roots back to Celtic tradition, along with Christian/humanist wonderings on good vs. evil, and other thought-provoking ideas for a night around the campfire. Note: turn down the volume on the background midi.

Halloween History: The Real Origins - A bit more strident discussion on Halloween's supposed evil influences in a self-admitted "work of amateur scholarship", but well-researched including related links to off-the-beaten-track resources

also see related feature -> Halloween History Has Ancient Roots

also in Halloween -> Halloween Buying Guide | Clip Art | DIY Decorations

E-Cards | Halloween Games | Halloween Costume Ideas

Halloween Masks | Halloween Makeup | Halloween Party Ideas

Halloween Recipes | Hayrides & Haunted Houses