History of Halloween
History of Halloween
Halloween originates from a Pagan Festival that occurs around the end of October in England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland. People believed that, at this time of year, the spirits of dead people could come ‘alive.’ The spirits can come down and walk among the living. They thought that it was important to dress up in costumes when going outside. People did this in order to avoid being harmed by the spirits. This may be the reason that many people wear the Halloween costumes seen today. In Puritan times, people were not allowed to celebrate. However, they were revived in later times.
What can I do on Halloween?
- Halloween celebrations in the United Kingdom include parties where guests are often expected to arrive in a costume to reflect the day’s theme. Other people gather together to watch horror films, either at home or at a cinema.
- -Some children go trick-or-treating. This means that they dress up and go to other peoples’ houses, knocking on the door for treat of sweets or a snack. Those who do not give out a treat may be tricked with a joke instead.
- Halloween has its origins in pagan festivals in England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland. Many stores and businesses see Halloween as a chance to promote products with a Halloween theme.
- Halloween is not a bank holiday in the United Kingdom. Schools, businesses, stores and other organizations are open as usual. Public transport services run on their normal timetables.
Apple Bobbing Game
This game is played by filling a tub or a large basin with water and putting apples in the water. As apples are less dense than water, they will float at the surface. Players then try to catch one with their teeth. Use of arms is not allowed, and often are tied behind the back to prevent cheating.
Halloween Vocabulary
Match the word with the definition!
Prank | A devil |
Wicca | A long, sharp curved blade |
Goblin | A fictional scary person, used to frighten children who misbehave. |
Fangs | Hard inner frame of a person or animal’s body, formed from bones that join together. |
Haunted | A magic rite, cast by a witch |
Bogeyman | Ancient religion practised by witches |
Cauldron | A popular Halloween custom in the UK and USA |
Demon | Mildly scary, though often in a fun way |
Scythe | Small, ugly, mischievous creature with a reputation for causing trouble |
Spell | A trick or practical joke |
Spooky | A cooking pot used by witches to brew spells |
Trick or Treat | Sharp, pointy upper teeth designed for piercing flesh |
Vampire | Unsettling or scary |
Skeleton | An undead creature who sleeps in a coffin by day and ventures out at night to bite people and drink their blood |
Creepy | A place frequented by ghosts or other spirits of the dead. |