Halloween: History, Interesting Facts etc.

1. The Origins of Halloween

Thousands of years ago, people believed that at the end of summer, evil spirits stole the sun and brought darkness during winter. October 31 was thought to be the most dangerous night of the year.

In ancient Britain and France, the Celts celebrated a festival called Samhain (pronounced sow-in). During this night, they believed that spirits, witches, and goblins wandered the land, causing mischief. To protect themselves, people lit huge bonfires and wore costumes made from animal skins and heads to stay hidden from the spirits.

Later, Samhain merged with the Roman festival of Faralia, which honored the dead. Eventually, Christians introduced All Saints’ Day on November 1 to replace pagan celebrations. The evening before became known as All Hallows’ Eve, then “Hallowe’en,” and finally just “Halloween.”

2. Strange Halloween Facts Around the World

• The word bonfire comes from "bone" and "fire" — people once burned animal bones to scare off spirits.
• In England, Halloween was once known as Nutcrack Night or Snap Apple Night.
• In Japan, people celebrate the Festival of the Dead called Bon, held August 13–15.
• In India, camel bones are buried under the door to keep away ghosts.
• In Germany, a nightmare is called a “goblin squeeze.”
• Hopi Indians in the U.S. honor the dead in June, on the summer solstice.
• In Mexico, children receive toys, and bakeries sell “Dead Men’s Bread” shaped like skulls.
• In France, children bring flowers to cemeteries for Halloween.

3. Why Do Ghosts Haunt Halloween?

Ghosts are commonly associated with Halloween today, but the idea of spirits returning was once seen as something peaceful. Many believed that ghosts of ancestors returned home on Halloween. Bonfires on hills were used to guide them, and they were welcomed with food and drinks.

But if the spirits were not properly treated, it was feared they could become angry — stealing livestock or even children. These legends led to the tradition of giving “treats” to avoid “tricks.”

Some ghosts are said to make noise, move objects, and disturb people. These are known as poltergeists — loud, invisible spirits that move furniture and create chaos.

4. Spooky Ghost Facts

• Children and animals are said to be more sensitive to ghosts.
• A blue candle flame is believed to mean a ghost is nearby.
• A candle that goes out on its own may mean a ghost is present.
• Ghosts leave no shadows or footprints.
• Mirrors on doors are thought to keep ghosts away.
• Throwing a key at a ghost will supposedly make it vanish.
• Wearing red or carrying bright lights helps protect from spirits.
• Turning your pocket inside out is a folk way to scare off ghosts.

5. Halloween Traditions in America

Halloween means “holy evening.” It’s celebrated on the night before All Saints’ Day. Before Christianity, people believed that October 31 was the night when spirits returned. To frighten them away, they made noise, wore scary costumes, and built fires.

European immigrants brought Halloween customs to the United States. One of the best-known traditions is the jack-o’-lantern: people carve faces into pumpkins and place a candle inside to scare off ghosts.

Today, Halloween is especially popular with children. They dress up as ghosts, skeletons, and monsters, then walk from house to house saying “Trick or treat!” Neighbors give them candy or small gifts. If not, the children may play harmless pranks.

Comprehension Questions

1. When is Halloween celebrated?
2. Why did people wear scary costumes in the past?
3. Why do people still celebrate Halloween today?
4. What do people put inside carved pumpkins?
5. Where are jack-o’-lanterns usually placed?
6. Why do people use jack-o’-lanterns?
7. What do children receive when they say “Trick or treat”?

6. Make Your Own Halloween Slime

What You Need:

• White liquid glue
• Borax (sodium borate)
• Water
• Two bowls
• Teaspoon & stirring spoons
• Cups & plastic bags
• Food coloring (optional)

Steps:

1. Mix 1/4 cup glue with 1/4 cup water. Add food coloring if desired.
2. In a separate bowl, dissolve 1/2 tsp borax in 1/2 cup water.
3. Slowly combine both mixtures while stirring.
4. Once slime forms, knead it with your hands until it becomes less sticky.

How It Works:

The glue contains polyvinyl acetate, a liquid polymer. Borax connects these molecules, creating a stretchy and fun substance. The more you play with it, the thicker it becomes.

Store your slime in a plastic bag inside the fridge to keep it fresh longer.