The Celtic Origins of Halloween

Video

In this documentary we explore another one of the Misunderstood Moments in History which has to do with the origin of Halloween. This dates back to the Celtic traditions from the bronze age Hallstatt and later La Tene culture. We discuss the seasonal importance of Samhain which occurred in late October as a means to commemorate the coming of Winter and a new year. It was a time when the Celts brought in their cattle and grain which was turned into food and alcohol for grand feasts. Great bonfires were lit by druids which helped ward against evil spirits and ensure that good fortune would follow in the next year. As a part of these Celtic traditions we talk about how early ideas of masks, costumes, and trick or treating emerged. Finally we conclude by looking at how the original Celtic festival of Samhain evolved over the years into the modern Halloween of today.

I hope you enjoy this history of Halloween as well as a history of the Celtic and Celtic myths and Celtic mythology. See you next time.