Halloween: origin and customs

In short: Halloween on 31 October is originally a Celtic and Christian festival that became a huge popular event mainly in the USA and has also been celebrated in Germany since the 1990s.

In more detail: The name comes from “All Hallows’ Eve”, the evening before All Saints’ Day.

In detail

• Origin: Goes back to the Celtic festival of Samhain, which marked the transition into winter.
• Pumpkins: Carved pumpkins (jack-o’-lanterns) are meant to ward off evil spirits.
• Trick or treat: Children go from house to house in costume.
• Costumes: Scary or imaginative outfits are the focus.
• Parties: Now also popular among adults.
• Criticism: In Germany some see it as competing with Saint Martin’s Day.
• Safety: Reflective clothing and visible paths for children in the dark (verkehrszeichen-und-ihre-bedeutung).