Spooky Origins: The History of Halloween 🎃

Ever wondered why we dress up, carve pumpkins, and snack on candy every October 31st? Let’s take a quick trip through the haunted history of Halloween!

Halloween, celebrated every October 31st, has a rich and mysterious history that stretches back over two thousand years. It all began with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, where people believed that on this night, the boundary between the living and the dead grew thin, allowing spirits to roam the Earth. To protect themselves, the Celts lit bonfires and wore costumes to confuse or ward off wandering ghosts. The evening before became known as All Hallows’ Eve, which eventually evolved into the name we know today—Halloween.

The tradition of trick-or-treating likely stems from medieval practices like “souling,” where people went door-to-door offering prayers for the dead in exchange for food. Costumes, originally worn to confuse spirits, became a playful way to express creativity and enjoy the spooky season. And of course, the iconic jack-o’-lantern has its roots in an Irish legend about Stingy Jack, who was doomed to wander the Earth with only a carved turnip and a coal. When Irish immigrants arrived in America, they found pumpkins were easier to carve—and a new tradition was born.

Even at sea, Halloween is a time for crew members to come together, celebrate, and share in the fun. Whether you’re hosting a costume contest, decorating your cabin, or enjoying themed treats, Halloween onboard is a reminder that traditions can travel, just like we do. So grab your costume, turn on a lantern, and let the Halloween spirit sail with you!