CULTURE: Halloween, between Celtic roots and American triumph
Once limited to English-speaking countries, Halloween has gradually taken its place in the Western imagination as the festival dedicated to the dead. Today it brings to mind costumes, candy, and glowing pumpkins, but its origins lie far deeper—in the rituals of the ancient Celts.
Ancient Roots of Halloween
The celebration traces back over two thousand years to Samhain, a Celtic festival marking the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter’s darkness. Samhain represented a time of transition when, it was believed, the boundary between the worlds of the living and the dead grew thin.
"Communities would light bonfires and wear masks to ward off wandering spirits."
Transformation Through Christianity
As Christianity spread across Europe, the Church adapted the holiday. In the 8th century, All Saints’ Day was moved to November 1st to overlap with pagan customs. This blending allowed ancient traditions to persist under new religious meanings, particularly in Ireland, where remembrance of the dead remained deeply rooted.
From Ireland to America
During the 19th century, waves of Irish immigrants carried these customs to the United States. There, Halloween evolved into the modern version celebrated worldwide today—complete with community festivities, costumes, and the famous jack-o’-lanterns carved from pumpkins.
Author’s Summary
From Celtic rituals honoring the spirits of the dead to a global celebration of costumes and fun, Halloween reflects the enduring transformation of ancient belief into modern tradition.