What is Halloween? When and How is Halloween Celebrated?

What is Halloween? When and How is Halloween Celebrated?

It is unknown when Halloween was first celebrated, but it is known that it was inspired by the Samhain Festival celebrated by the Pagan Celts of ancient Britain. The Celts celebrated November 1st as a festival at the end of each harvest. 

The colonies of British origin that settled in America over time managed to maintain this culture in the new continent. European countries, which interacted with America, also adopted this culture over time and transformed it into Halloween celebrations.

Initially unaccepted by the Christian community in America and Europe, Halloween was subjected to many bans. Later, in order to ensure social peace, it became celebrated in many countries on October 31 every year. In this way, when is Hallowen? It has become a clear answer to the question.

Hallowen and Child
Hallowen and Child

What is Halloween? History?

What is Halloween as a dictionary definition? When the question is answered, it means the eve of All Saints' Day, which is celebrated by Christian communities on November 1st. To answer the question why Halloween is celebrated, the origin of the word should be examined. 

Halloween is derived from All Hallow's Eve, meaning the eve of All Saints' Day. Halloween has been celebrated as a time of end-of-harvest marriages and divine ceremonies in which the dead are blessed. It is believed that during this period the spirits of the dead visit the houses where they live. 

The Celts, who lit fires on the hills, also believed that by igniting the hearths in their homes, they drove away evil spirits. They wore masks on their faces during the events so that the evil spirits would not recognize them. 

In the 1st century, when the Romans conquered the Celtic lands, the harvest festival of Pomona and the festival of death, Feralia, merged to become Halloween.

Girls on Halloween
Girls on Halloween

When is Halloween Celebrated in Which Country?


Halloween is celebrated in the British Isles, North America, many countries in Europe, Japan, the Philippines and many parts of Latin America. Although it has been celebrated at different times in different cultures throughout history, Holloween has come to be celebrated on October 31 in many parts of the world. 

This holy day, first identified with the Celtic and then with the Christian community, has come to be recognized as a children's holiday. In many societies, children still celebrate Halloween by wearing masks and costumes, going door to door with their parents and celebrating the day in a festive atmosphere. 

It is believed that evil spirits are driven away by the activities.

On October 31, the eve of All Saints' Day, children dress up in scary costumes and masks and go door to door. In this way, they believe they are warding off the spirits of the dead and protecting themselves with costumes. 

Children are given sweets and pocket money from the houses they visit. Initially identified with Celtic culture, these events were later widely accepted by the Christian community. 

Here we have prepared a list of Halloween movie suggestions list to help you have a perfect Halloween. Enjoy watching;

  • Foreigner,
  • Dead Bride
  • House of Corpses
  • Halloween
  • Purification Night
  • Scream,

People looking for an answer to the question can organize their own events on October 31st or participate in events in entertainment venues that include celebrations in this sense.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why Celebrate Halloween?
Which Country Has Halloween?
What is Soul Cake?
Why Use Pumpkins on Halloween?