Pumpkins are for sale everywhere in October. These pumpkins may be carved to become a smiling face or a scary one, but do parents know or teach the history behind the pumpkins or Halloween in our history? Immigrants brought traditions with them and the pumpkin is no exception.
In modern days, I remember quite well seeing the groups of Halloween goers walking the streets as I rode a Greyhound bus from North Carolina to Alabama. I had gone to N.C. for my Grandfather's Funeral. It was a sad time and that ride going back home and watching the strange costumes and the weird faces made Halloween NOT one of my favorite holidays. But, that was just my experience, whereas others remember real happy and fun times.
As we know, every Halloween comes on October 31st. The streets will be dark and children will be going from door to door, shouting "TRICK OR TREAT!" Of course they will be excited to be handed candy...lots of candy! The next day in class may not be teacher's favorite day...with all the hyperactivity! I remember those days also.
Today's parents are more careful than they used to be about their children's safety on Halloween. "Don't handle or eat that candy if it is not wrapped," they may say. "NEVER, NO NEVER go into anyone's home!" "We'll be waiting and watching you from the car," they are likely to say when keeping a close eye on their little ones.
But are children and young people being taught the real history behind this holiday? For instance, do they know the difference between HALLOWEEN LEDGENDS and ALL SAINTS DAY?
HERE ARE SOME FACTS ABOUT ALL SAINTS DAY, WHICH IS REMEMBERED BY CHRISTIANS
October 31st, the night before All Saints' Day.
It marks the beginning of the three-day observance of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day.
The term "hallow" means "holy," reflecting the church's focus on honoring saints and the deceased.
A time for prayer and reflection on the lives of saints and martyrs, with special services..
The celebration has evolved over time, incorporating various cultural customs and practices.
LIGHTING CANDLES TO REMEMBER THE DECEASED and CHRISTIAN MARTYRS ON ALL SAINTS DAY
WHERE DID OUR HALLOWEEN LEGENDS COME FROM?
Celtic Influence: Immigrants from Ireland and Scotland brought traditions from the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain.
Roman Contributions: Roman customs, particularly the festival of Pomona, blended with Celtic practices during the Roman occupation of Britain.
Christian Adaptation: Early Christians adapted pagan traditions into All Hallows' Eve, leading to Halloween's evolution.
Irish Folklore: Irish immigrants shared tales of ghosts, fairies, and other supernatural beings that shaped Halloween lore.
Cultural Exchange: The mixing of various European traditions in America contributed to the modern celebration of Halloween.
Commercialization: In the 20th century, Halloween legends were further popularized through media and commercial interests.
Legends are part of our history, but modern versions of Halloween should also not be forgotten.
Who will ever forget THE GREAT PUMPKIN with CHARILIE BROWN?
WE THOUGHT IT WOULD BE A GOOD TIME TO GET A LITTLE SENTIMENTAL AND FOLLOW HIM INTO THE PUMPKIN PATCH!