Where Did Halloween Come From

THE FESTIVAL OF SAMHAIN It began at the end of Summer, Marked the end of Harvest Season. It's not the name of a Celtic god, As some thought for some reason. Samhain is a Celtic word and is pronounced (Sow-en), And in Celtic it means "Summer's End", It's the way they marked their calendar year. The way their New Year begins. When the Potato Famine hit Ireland, Many folks left it seems, Bringing with them their traditions, Of Samhain and Halloween. Folks dressed themselves to trick the ghosts, To look like one of them. If the ghosts get you they'll take your soul, And then your troubles begin. Some spirits disguise as humans, As beggars who knock on doors. If turned away empty handed, You'll be haunted and cursed and more. During this time they stayed close to home, So as not to offend those who came. Leaving food by the door they huddled inside, T'was no celebration, Samhain. Pope Gregory I gave it Christian context, Converting standing non-Christian traditions, To early midievil Christian beliefs, In Saints to make simpler transition. After mixing Celtic spirits with the Saints, He designated All Saints Day, (Nov.1st.) But the old beliefs did not die out, In the minds of the elders it stayed. Oct. 31st was All Hallows Day Evening, The night before All Saints were revered. This later was known as Halloween, At last something no one would fear.