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Halloween, synonymous with unusual costumes, frightening witch costumes and pumpkin themes, is celebrated annually on October 31st in various cultures around the world. With its history dating back thousands of years to pagan culture, this holiday is kept alive with various traditions in different parts of the world. Let's take a step into the colorful world of Halloween, which has influenced everything from festivals and fashion to entertainment and the food industry.

The Origin of Halloween

While the exact origins of Halloween are unknown, it is thought to be inspired by pagan festivals dating back 2,000 years. Samhain, celebrated on November 1st, was considered a harvest and end-of-summer festival. Tribes gathered their harvests, prepared for winter, decorated the graves of the dead, and believed that the spirits of the dead descended to Earth once a year. They would disguise themselves by applying makeup and smearing the ashes of bonfires they lit during festivities. The origin of the "trick-or-treat" tradition on Halloween stems from this ritual. Over time, Halloween began to be celebrated among Christians on All Saints' Day, October 31st and has now evolved into a global celebration and ritual.

Preparing for Halloween

On October 31st, the night of Halloween is celebrated, people gather and throw large parties. On this day, which marks the end of summer and the beginning of winter, children dress in fantastically detailed costumes and go door to door, asking, "Trick or treat?" to collect candy. While October 31st is the main celebration today, preparations and various events begin days in advance, especially in Northern Europe and America.

The Relationship Between Pumpkins and Halloween

When Halloween is mentioned, one of the first things that comes to mind is the pumpkin. Colorful pumpkins that have been carved and decorated with eyes, mouths and noses, are both incredibly entertaining and frightening. There are several reasons why pumpkins are chosen for Halloween.

Pumpkins ripen seasonally in Northern Europe and America during this time. Furthermore, they can be used in a variety of recipes, from soups to desserts. In ancient times, candles that were placed inside the carved pumpkins served both as lanterns at festivals and created a spooky atmosphere.

Halloween Events Around the World

Halloween is celebrated as a global event, particularly in the US and Northern European countries. Here are some Halloween traditions from around the world:

New York (USA)

New York is one of the most popular places in the US for Halloween. Events include a giant pumpkin float parade in Central Park, street parades, Halloween-themed boat parties on the Hudson River and thousands of ghosts and skeletons roaming the streets of New York.

Mexico

Celebrations begin annually on October 31st and last for three days in Mexico. These celebrations, called Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead), have their origins in the Aztec civilization. Families leave various foods, water and personal items at the graves of their deceased loved ones. They prepare an altar called an ofrenda for the spirits of the dead, whom they believe will return to Earth. These altars also include the person's favorite foods, their photographs and candy shaped like a skull with the deceased's name written on it. 

Ireland

Halloween, celebrated as the Púca Festival in the towns of Trim and Athboy in eastern Ireland, holds a significant place in Celtic history. It begins with a massive bonfire lit at Trim Castle, believed to be the site of the Samhain gathering. Throughout the four-day event, ancient traditions are revived with various performances, folk costumes and music. Barm brack (fruitcake) or colcannon (mashed cabbage, butter and potato) are prepared and served, containing rings or coins. 

London (England)

Halloween, also celebrated in England with considerable color, often involves visiting cemeteries believed to be haunted. In addition to street festivals, adult parties like zombie weddings, Halloween cabarets and Gothic operas are also held. Tractor rides to pumpkin fields with children are also popular activities.