Live countdown to Halloween 2025
Halloween transforms October 31st into a night of costumes, candy, and celebration, blending ancient Celtic traditions with modern American festivities. Fixed on October 31st, this date originated from the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, when people believed the boundary between the living and dead became blurred, allowing spirits to return to earth. The timing at autumn's end, when harvests concluded and winter approached, made it a natural transition point between seasons and a time for honoring the deceased. From historical perspective, Halloween evolved through Christian influence (All Hallows' Eve before All Saints' Day), Irish immigration to America, and commercial development into today's billion-dollar celebration. The October 31st date provides perfect timing for autumn festivities, with cooler weather ideal for outdoor activities and costume-wearing. Modern Halloween combines multiple traditions: trick-or-treating from medieval "souling," jack-o'-lanterns from Irish folklore, and costume parties from ancient disguises meant to confuse evil spirits. This cultural fusion creates America's second-largest commercial holiday after Christmas.
Service availability on Friday, October 31, 2025
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October 31st was the Celtic festival of Samhain, marking the end of harvest and beginning of winter, when spirits were believed to return to earth.
Trick-or-treating evolved from medieval "souling," where people went door-to-door offering prayers for the dead in exchange for food.
Jack-o'-lanterns come from Irish folklore about "Stingy Jack," with carved turnips (later pumpkins in America) used to ward off evil spirits.
No, Halloween is not a federal holiday, though it's widely celebrated culturally and many businesses embrace Halloween themes.
Halloween (All Hallows' Eve) occurs the night before All Saints' Day (November 1st), when Christians honor saints and martyrs.
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