Hallowe'en Traditions Explained
Trick-or-Treating, Apple Bobbing, and Masks
Why do we go trick-or-treating, bob for apples, and wear masks on October 31?
Hallowe'en has its roots in ancient times and is still celebrated in many of the world's countries. It is observed in various forms in the United Kingdom, Mexico, Spain, Canada, and the United States.
In North America, Hallowe'en is time for children to dress up in costumes and go trick-or treating. Some of us go to costume parties or dances to celebrate this festival. But where did the custom of trick-or-treating start? The idea of going door-to-door and being given food was actually a part of more than one ancient practise.
During the long-ago celebration of Samhain, it was believed that the dead actually had the ability to play trick on the living and generally cause all kinds of mayhem. In an effort to appease these restless spirits, area residents would give food items to Druid priests, who would go house to house to collect it.
The concept of bobbing for apples can be traced back to the time when the Celts conquered by the Romans and became part of the Roman Empire. The Romans worshipped several deities, one of which was Pomona, the goddess of the harvest. Images of Pomona show her seated on a basket brimming with flowers and assorted fruits. Apples were considered sacred fruits (which seems surprising since they are so common to us) and were used for several types of games during Samhain celebrations.
The Hallowe'en mask is based on a very old custom as well. In ancient times, during times of drought or hardship, people wore masks in an effort to frighten off the evil spirits they believed were responsible for causing the misfortune.
The late fall, after the harvest was in and houses were warm and cozy, was thought of as a time when the ghosts outside in the cold, dark night might well be envious of all this bounty. When people went out in the evening, they wore masks so as not to be recognized.
As you observe Hallowe'en this year, keep in mind that the traditions we observe now have their roots in very ancient traditions. Happy Hallowe'en everyone!
