In the western world today, we are celebrating Halloween. Halloween has religious roots. According to Wikipedia, Halloween is the “the time in the liturgical year dedicated to remembering the dead, including saints (hallows), martyrs, and all the faithful departed.” In popular culture, Halloween has become a fun celebration of horror, the supernatural and the macabre.

Traditions in America include costume parties, visiting scary attractions, trick-or-treating, harvest festivals, bonfires, hayrides, and carving pumpkins. Some still observe the religious practices of All Saints Day, and attend church services the night before and place candles on the graves of their loved ones.

This year, we will celebrate by going trick or treating in a neighborhood close to ours. Next year, we will celebrate by hosting a costume party and bonfire.

What are your Halloween plans?