In the 19th century, this holiday became popular in the United States, where many Irish migrants managed to popularize it on October 31. We had to wait until the end of the 20th century to see the phenomenon break out in our country.
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Vegetables dug and lit as a ritual
But why exactly do we empty pumpkins or other vegetables to make lanterns by lighting them with a candle? This ritual comes from a medieval Irish tale. At the time, a drunkard named Jack was condemned to wander between heaven and hell, reports Sud Ouest. He did this with a lantern made from an illuminated turnip to light his way.
If we dress up as frightening creatures on Saint Samhain, it is to honor Celtic tradition. According to this, it was customary for the dead to come and visit the world of the living during this night. In the latter, festivities were organized to welcome the dead.
And now, a trade party?
Over the past sixty years, Halloween has taken on a commercial aspect. Disguises, decorations, masks, costumes, skeletons, ghosts and even horror films: all are popular on this day of the year.
In any case, Halloween is now intended to be a fun, family celebration, which we can also celebrate with friends and during which we disconnect from our daily lives, all on the eve of a public holiday where many Belgians must not worry about work the next day. This is also one of the reasons why Halloween has become essential in Belgium.
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