How to Celebrate All Hallow's Eve

Halloween is the shortened term for "All Hallow's Eve." All Hallow's Day was considered November 1. For ancient Celts, this was the start of the new year and the bringing on of winter. On the night before--All Hallow's Eve--the spirits of the dead were said to walk once more among the living. In order to keep off the evil spirits, some traditions and festivities began. You can bring them into your modern day celebrations on Halloween for some classic All Hallow's Eve celebratory fun.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Start a bonfire. If you can do so safely in your neighborhood in a designated area, this is a great way to get your community involved in the old tradition. Use raked leaves and discarded furniture as fuel for the fire. Starting a bonfire was a way that evil spirits were kept at bay. Avoid telling this part of the tale to little ones, or you will spend time comforting scared kids instead of enjoying the festivities.

2. Buy a mask. This was yet another way to ward off the evil spirits. You can find modern masks in any big box retail store, drug store or Halloween boutique in October.

3. Create caramel apples for your children. The ancient Romans bobbed for apples, but this can be an updated tribute to Pomona, the Roman goddess of the orchards.

4. Serve cider. You can have two forms of cider if you have adult guests that want something a bit stronger in their cider. Just make sure you don't get confused when pouring beverages for your little ones.

5. Remember saints of this evening as well. Catholics started celebrating All Saint's Day on November 1 in the first century B.C. Lighting a candle and praying for a saint that inspires you is a good way to bring in old tradition to this modern celebration. The "holy evening" that has become Halloween has a legacy that should be respected on all levels.

6. Carve a pumpkin. This tradition originated in Europe, but it would not be a proper All Hallow's Eve without this time-honored tradition.

Tips & Warnings

• Learn all the trivia of how All Hallow's Eve began to turn the celebration into a fun history lesson for your kids. They'll likely dazzle friends and teachers with the information they know about this often misunderstood holiday.
• Don't explain origins that are frightening to very small children. Keep a smile on your face and excitement in your voice when you talk about All Hallow's Eve with very small kids.