Halloween's Evolution

Halloween Already?

Wow, this year has flown by so fast! Can you believe it's already October, and Halloween is just around the corner? Halloween decorations are popping up all over the neighborhoods. It doesn't end there. The large retail stores are anticipating the Christmas holidays and bypassing Halloween and Thanksgiving altogether. This is evident from the fact that these stores are already fully stocked with Christmas merchandise and decorations. But let's talk about Halloween for now.

The Meaning and Origin of Halloween

Halloween, celebrated on October 31st, is a cherished day for children and adults alike. This special day originated in Ireland. It has deep spiritual roots, originally known as Samhain, and is infused with tradition. It serves as a time to commemorate the end of summer, the start of winter, and the arrival of darker, colder days. Signifying the end of one cycle and the beginning of another, Halloween holds a significant place in the hearts of many.

Though Halloween has its roots in Europe, it transformed into the widely celebrated holiday we know today after being introduced to America by the early settlers. Originally, people in Europe carved out turnips and placed candles inside them to protect themselves from evil spirits. However, in America, this tradition changed as people began using pumpkins instead of turnips for their carvings.

Back in the Days

It brings fond memories of my children and my childhood. When my children were growing up, our neighborhood was the place to go to for trick-or-treating. Parents drove their kids from the surrounding neighborhoods to ours. Nearly every house was decorated and offered treats. Sure, some neighbors did not partake in this celebration, but most did.

Dozens of children of all ages flocked the streets in their lovely costumes. Some parents dressed up too and accompanied their children, while others gave candy in their driveway clothed as cheerful, pretty, heroic, or scary characters. It was easier to do it that way and not run to the door every time the doorbell rang, since it was nonstop. There were a lot of kids running around the streets trick-or-treating. Though I never wore a costume as an adult, I enjoyed it regardless.

Many changes have taken place as the years gone by. In my childhood years, our costumes, specifically the face mask, were unlike what you see today. It was a vacuumed-formed plastic mask of our chosen character that only covered our faces. It tied from one side to the other across the back of our head. The bottom clothing piece was crafted from a rayon, I believe, or something like it. Costumes nowadays are incredibly realistic, but they can be quite pricey.

During my youth, Halloween meant venturing out for trick-or-treating with kids of similar age, all without adult supervision. Despite the contrasting norms of the 1960s and 70s, our neighborhood felt relatively safe. I remember my favorite costume was the witch. Those were such memorable times.

By the 1990s, I accompanied my children during their trick-or-treating outings, joined by a couple of other adults with their children. In the current era, it is uncommon for children to venture out alone as the previous sense of safety has diminished, with a few exceptions, if you live in a private neighborhood. Last year, many children arrived accompanied by a parent or older sibling. And, many individuals have turned to trunks or treats in public places.

Precautions to Heed

Here are some precautions to take when allowing your little ones to venture out to gather some treats.

• Ensure your child's costume fits properly, isn't too big, and is made of a flame-retardant material.

• Use reflective tape or carry a flashlight to be more visible to drivers.

• Discuss with your children the importance of never entering a stranger's home or car.

• Advise them not to eat any treats until inspected at home.
• If you partake in the tradition of handing out goodies, turn on exterior lights, making your home visible.

Halloween Decor

Over the years, Halloween has grown dramatically, bringing joy to children through the tradition of trick-or-treating and providing adults with the opportunity to revel in Halloween parties. The decorations have evolved into elaborate, spooky, and creative displays, featuring elaborate light shows and eerie music.

Therefore, this Halloween, step out to deliver goodies and enjoy the parade of children dressed in their favorite characters. Or, if you don't celebrate Halloween, keep your lights off, and cuddle up to watch your favorite suspense movie. Either way, enjoy the day.