All fright on the night ...
There’s something strange in your neighbourhood … and plenty of others too! Here’s why October is the world’s spookiest month
THE leaves are starting to fall and the evenings are getting darker… it must be nearly time for Halloween. The tradition of this ghostly night has been kept alive for centuries.
It’s hard to know who started it, as this time of the year is marked with festivals in different cultures all over the world.
In Britain and Europe, the pagan ritual of Samhain has been taking place for thousands of years. It celebrates the Celtic new year, marking the end of summer and the beginning of winter.
The Celts believed that, at this time of year, the barrier between the human and spirit world becomes thinner, letting all manner of creepy creatures through to roam our streets.
On the Isle of Man, October 31 is known as Hop Tu Naa, when children sing about Ginny the Witch and carve turnip lanterns to ward off evil spirits.
Said to have been introduced by Irish immigrants during the 19th century, All Hallow’s Eve became extremely popular in America, as people embraced trick-or-treating and pumpkin carving. In some parts of the world, October is traditionally the time to remember ancestors or loved ones.
In Asian countries, people celebrate the Hungry Ghost Festival, when restless spirits are said to roam the Earth. Offerings of food are left outside homes to feed the spirits of ancestors.
November 1 is Dia de Los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, when Mexican people celebrate loved ones who have passed away.
Homes are decorated with calavera – small skulls made from sugar or clay covered in meaningful, brightly coloured patterns.
Decorations and fancy dress play a big part in Halloween celebrations all over the world.
In Japan this year, thousands of costumed characters will take to the streets for the Kawasaki Halloween Parade, dressed as everything from a Chanel handbag to a giant green toothbrush!
All Hallow’s Eve became extremely popular in America, as people embraced trick-or-treating and pumpkin carving