What is Halloween

Halloween is a celebration that takes place annually on October 31st. Originally it was celebrated as a pagan holiday for the Celts in Ireland and Scotland, but it was later influenced by Christian customs.

It's known for its spooky costumes, scary decorations, and sweet treats. Children typically dress up in costumes and go trick-or-treating, while adults might attend costume parties or visit haunted houses. The holiday is also associated with scary movies, ghost stories, and other spooky activities.

Halloween Vocabulary

Here are a few common words and phrases associated with Halloween:

  • Trick-or-Treat: Children go door-to-door, saying "trick-or-treat" in exchange for candy.
  • Jack-o'-Lantern: A carved pumpkin with a candle inside.
  • Vampire: A mythological creature that drinks blood and can't be exposed to sunlight.
  • Ghost: The spirit of a person who has died.
  • Witch: A woman who practices magic or sorcery.
  • Haunted House: A place where people go to be scared, often featuring spooky decorations and actors in scary costumes.

Halloween Around the World

Halloween is primarily a holiday celebrated in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. However, other countries also have their own traditions and celebrations.

Mexico celebrates El Día de los Muertos or Day of the Dead, which is a three-day celebration honoring deceased loved ones. In China, people celebrate the Hungry Ghost Festival, during which they offer food to the dead to ensure good fortune. In Japan, they have the Obon Festival, where people visit their ancestors' graves and light lanterns to guide their spirits home.

Regardless of where it's celebrated, Halloween is a time for spooky fun and celebrating the supernatural. Whether you're dressing up in costumes or visiting haunted houses, the holiday offers a chance to indulge in a little bit of fear and excitement.