Halloween likely sprang from the Celtic celebration of Samhain on November 1st. The division between the seasons–with the harvest complete, winter looming, and the light of the sun waning,–was a perfectly symbolic time to recognize a thinning of the separation between life and death. A time when the veil that falls between us and those departed might slip, revealing a glimpse of souls wandering the night. Donning dark disguises to evade unwelcome visitors (“guising”), carving vegetable lamps into grotesque faces to frighten away offending sprites, and putting treats out to placate the undead are all traditions brought to North America from Irish, Scottish, and English immigrants in the 1700 and 1800′s. The explosion of popularity with door-to-door trick-or-treating, Halloween themed parties, and lawn decorations appears to have become mainstream culture in the U.S. after 1930.

Handing out candy to tots dressed up in scary costumes is definitely an American phenomenon that just won’t quit. In Europe putting plates of food on doorsteps as a night-time snack for unsettled spirits eventually evolved into giving out small “soul cakes” to the poor who came knocking this time of year. Incorporated into Christianity, this was a night that for the favor of a treat, beggars who were out “souling” agreed to say prayers for dead family members to speed their passing into heaven. Many derivations on trick-or-treating have popped up over the decades. There are still regional differences, with some putting more emphasis on the tricks, but we like the treat part best. Most “guisers” agree that chocolate treats rank highest in that goody bag. If you could get away with it, you’d be dressed up in your best bed-sheet and out with the kids, too (we would!). But for us grown-ups the best way to celebrate is with some good chocolate. Keep Intrigue Chocolates on your Halloween shopping list and at least pass them out to your closest friends…IF they promise not to pull any pranks!

Tags: holidays