By Brooke Brinker, Staff Writer
In today’s words, Halloween is known for being a fun day to decorate, get into costumes, and eat candy. But there is a rich history behind this entrancing holiday.
Halloween began 2000 years ago, and it all started with a tradition called the “Ancient Celtic festival of Samhain.” People would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts.
In 837 A.D., The Pope Gregory wanted to designate Nov. 1 for Saints in order to honor them. These Saints, on Saint’s Day, would do similar traditions as the Samhain. Since Saint’s Day was on Nov. 1, the day before it was called, “All Hallows Eve.” As the years passed, the phonological way of saying it altered, and is now known as “Halloween.”
Professor DeBerri, who teaches, “Religion: Searching for Light in the Darkness,” said, “Thus, Halloween is the anticipation of the great Catholic solemnity of All Saints Day, on Nov. 1, in which the Church celebrates all the women and men, both famous and not-so-well-known, who are with God in heaven.”
Although it was the U.S. that popularized Halloween, the celebration is, surprisingly, not from America. It originated from Europe and was brought to America by the early settlers. America started to celebrate Halloween in the 19th century because Irish and Scottish immigrants brought their own traditions to America.
Different American states celebrate this holiday in different ways, with varying signature traditions. Such as Utah, which is known for decorating the most for Halloween. Whereas, Montana is known for its pumpkin spice lattes and music.
Most Saint Leo students do not know what to do for Halloween at the university. However, there are many events to look forward to. Every year, Saint Leo does an annual trick-or-treat event.
It is similar to a scavenger hunt, you go from building to building, trying to find the professors with the candy. It is a fun, creative, and even nostalgic event to attend.
Professor Jacquelyn White, who teaches in the math department, said, “Saint Leo professors give out candy for the community kids, and they have office decorating prizes.”
Another way Saint Leo celebrates Halloween is by hosting Halloween-themed movie nights in the library. The last two years, it has been the thriller and creepy movie, “Meghan.” The event always includes delicious snacks and drinks. So, bring your friends for a fun movie night that is perfect for Halloween.
As Halloween is coming soon, this is a reminder to think about the past, and the beginning of Halloween. From Celtic festivals to Saint Leo festivals, Halloween encourages us to celebrate community and creativity.
