The origins of trick-or-treating date back to Samhain, Halloween’s ancient Celtic progenitor. Learn how this costume- and candy-based ritual got its start.
Category Archives: History
Why Do We Give Out Candy on Halloween?
Yes, even Halloween candy has an ancient Celtic origin. Turns out, Samhain spirits are a bit snacky. Offerings must be made to keep evil at bay.
13 Celtic Myth-Inspired Halloween Costumes
Honor Halloween’s Celtic roots this spooky season by dressing up in a costume worthy of an Irish god…or monster. These Samhain costume ideas will hopefully help get your creative juices flowing.
Why Do We Wear Costumes on Halloween?
The Celtic origins of the Halloween costume, unmasked! Learn how Samhain superstitions gave rise to mummers, guisers, and costumed trick-or-treaters.
Why Are Black and Orange the Colors of Halloween?
Why do we decorate with black and orange on Halloween? Uncover the Celtic origins of this colorful tradition. (Hint: It all started with Samhain.)
Why Do We Bob for Apples on Halloween?
Bobbing for apples on Halloween is a tradition with deep roots in Celtic paganism. Learn how the festival of Samhain inspired this fruit-filled frenzy.
The Top 10 Live-Action Irish Mythology Movies
A list of the top-rated live-action films inspired by Irish folklore, fairy tales, legends, and myths as ranked by users of IMDb (the Internet Movie Database)
Another Month, Another Book Giveaway: Introducing ‘Irish Monsters in Your Pocket’
Book 3 of the Celtic Pocket Guides series is here! Grab your copy of Irish Monsters in Your Pocket: A Tiny Little Book About Irish Dragons, Werewolves, Vampires. Banshees, Headless Horsemen, & Other Beastly Beings
Púca Origins: How a Mischievous Little Monster Infiltrated Irish Folklore
What is a púca? Uncover the origins and etymology of an animal-spirit with a penchant for pranks, who proves Ireland’s most sinister supernatural beings come in small packages.
Who Is Balor of the Evil Eye? A Brief Biography of Irish Mythology’s ‘Big Bad’
As the leader of the marauding, murderous Fomorians, Balor of the Evil Eye is perhaps the most menacing villain in all of Irish mythology. (Wait, did I mention he can kill people just by looking at them?)