Halloween

2026: October 31, 2026

Modern observance · varied countries and communities

Halloween (31 October) is a popular festival of costumes, trick-or-treating and spooky fun on the eve of All Saints' Day.

Origin

Its name comes from "All Hallows' Eve". It mixes Christian All Hallows customs with older Celtic festival traditions such as Samhain, and was popularised in North America by Irish and Scottish immigrants.

Where & who

USA, Canada, Ireland, UK and increasingly worldwide.

How people celebrate

• Costumes, trick-or-treating and parties.
• Carving jack-o'-lanterns (originally turnips in Ireland and Scotland).
• Ghost stories and haunted attractions.

How you can take part or learn

• Open to everyone. Choose costumes that don't mock a culture or religion.
• Use LED lights in pumpkins and keep paths clear for children.

Symbols

Jack-o'-lanterns, black cats, bats, ghosts, autumn colours.

Food, music & art

Candy, toffee apples, barmbrack (Irish fruit bread with a ring inside).