As Halloween approaches, I can’t help but wonder if any of you have ever been curious about the deeper roots of this season. So many of our favorite traditions, from dressing up to gathering around bonfires, have ancient origins that add a layer of magic to these modern festivities. One tradition that I find especially enchanting is the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain (pronounced “Sow-in”). Let me share a little about it with you.

Samhain, meaning “Summer’s End,” marked the close of the Celtic year and the beginning of a new one, a transition that was deeply felt as the seasons shifted from summer’s warmth to the cooler, darker days of winter. In ancient Celtic belief, this was a time when the boundary between the worlds of the living and the dead was at its thinnest, and spirits could pass freely between the two realms. It was a beautiful, yet slightly eerie time when departed loved ones were welcomed back for a visit. People would set out some of their favorite foods to honor them, a practice of remembrance and hospitality that connected families across time.

But, as you can imagine, it wasn’t just friendly spirits that were thought to wander. Darker energies could also slip through, leading to the tradition of disguising oneself. People darkened their faces with ashes to blend in with any wandering spirits, a practice that eventually evolved into the Halloween costumes and masks we see today.

Samhain was also a season of preparation for the long, cold months ahead. Communities would come together to harvest, store food, and butcher livestock for winter. They’d gather around what they called “bone fires” – yes, that’s where our modern “bonfire” tradition originated! These fires symbolized protection, warmth, and the sharing of stories as the year came to a close.

It’s fascinating to think that so many of today’s traditions are rooted in these ancient rituals. So, as we gather this Halloween, maybe we can take a moment to honor the past while enjoying the present, celebrating not just the fun but also the history woven into this season. Whether you’re setting out treats for little visitors, gathering around a cozy fire, or simply lighting a candle, know that you’re taking part in something both timeless and magical.

Happy Samhain, 

Tam xo