Why do we celebrate Halloween?

Many people look forward to Halloween, but not everyone knows the true origins of this holiday. Learn about the mysteries, superstition, ancient beliefs and traditions of Halloween.

Accessibility icon Why do we celebrate Halloween?

Why do we celebrate Halloween?

Halloween comes from very old traditions from the Norse and Celtic cultures. The first known celebration is from more than 2000 years ago when the Celts celebrated Samhain. The Celts lived in Ireland, Great Britain and northern France. Back then, Halloween was a celebration of the year’s harvest, that summer was over and that the cold winter was on its way. They lit a bonfire and sometimes animals were killed. Everyone could take home a flame for their own fireplace. The celebration lasted for three days and three nights. You had to be there. iIf you were not there,  you could be punished by the gods through illness and death.

Avoid being kidnapped!

In Norse and Celtic traditions, people thought that the border between the physical world and the spiritual world disappeared on this night, and the dead came back. The Celts dressed up in animal costumes and dressed up like monsters so evil spirits wouldn’t kidnap them.

Ønsker du å lese hele artikkelen?

Ved å logge inn får du full tilgang til artikkelen, samt Lærerrommet med engasjerende læringsstier og oppgaver du kan bruke i undervisningen.

Logg inn med Feide

Ønsker du å prøve ut fullversjonen av Skolerom?
Kontakt oss her!