During the celebration, the Celts wore costumes, typically consisting of animal heads and skins, and attempted to tell each other’s fortunes. To commemorate the event, Druids built huge sacred bonfires, where the people gathered to burn crops and animals as sacrifices to the Celtic deities. The Celts, who lived 2,000 years ago, mostly in the area that is now Ireland, the United Kingdom and northern France, celebrated their new year on November 1. Halloween’s origins date back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain (pronounced sow-in). WATCH: Haunted History on HISTORY Vault Ancient Origins of Halloween Over time, Halloween evolved into a day of activities like trick-or-treating, carving jack-o-lanterns, festive gatherings, donning costumes and eating treats. The evening before was known as All Hallows Eve, and later Halloween. Soon, All Saints Day incorporated some of the traditions of Samhain. In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as a time to honor all saints.

The tradition originated with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts. Halloween is a holiday celebrated each year on October 31, and Halloween 2022 will occur on Monday, October 31. Halloween Matchmaking and Lesser-Known Rituals.

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