Even though Halloween can only come once a year, many people still find their own special way to make the most out of it, whether it is passing out candy, dressing up, or making fall goodies. Even though Halloween has been around for hundreds of years in some form or another, the fun-filled traditions have remained relatively the same.
The tradition of Halloween originated from the Celtic Festival of Samhain when people would dress up in costumes and light bonfires to ward off Ghostly Spirits. The townsfolk would burn animals and crops as sacrifices to the Celtic deities. Costumes would be made out of animal heads and skins.
During the 8th century, Pope Gregory ||| designated November 1st to be all saints day. Years later, the night before All Saint’s Day began to include some of the traditions of Samhain. This evening became known as All Hallows Eve. All Hallows Eve became so popular, that over time, it became its own holiday that we all know and love: Halloween.
America first celebrated Halloween in 1840. Over time, our present-day traditional Halloween activities have formed, such as candy feasting, Trick-or-Treating, jack-o-lantern carving, and bobbing for apples. Many of these present-day traditions are American traditions that other countries have made their own adaptations to.
Indiana hopped on the Halloween bandwagon for the first time in 1927. A parade of costumed children and adults marched down Washington Street led by the Indianapolis Military Band. Children crowded the streets to gather the candy thrown from the parade.
Halloween remains just as popular in Indiana as it was 100 years ago. In a survey, 45% of New Castle High School students and faculty said that they would be looking forward to dressing up for Halloween, and 32% said that they were considering it, but were yet to think of a costume. Trojan Sophmore Ashlyn Bell said that she might dress up, but was more looking forward to eating candy and hanging out with friends.
However, costumes and candy are not the only things New Castle is looking forward to. Many adults simply find joy in watching the children have fun. Teacher Susan Delay said that her favorite part of Halloween was seeing children dressed up in their costumes. Junior Ella Garvin said that her favorite part of Halloween is making fall treats. Teacher Ryan Denney said that he loves Halloween because it is simply a holiday that everyone can celebrate.
Even though Halloween only rolls around once a year, it will always be certain to return the next year, even spookier and scarier than before. Though the traditions of Halloween have remained relatively the same, the fun holiday of Halloween will never lose its spark.
