Why do we decorate with black and orange on Halloween? Uncover the Celtic origins of this colorful tradition. (Hint: It all started with Samhain.)
Tag Archives: Celtic history
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.
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?)
I Just Published a New Book About Samhain. Want a Free Copy?
Book 2 of the Celtic Pocket Guides series is here! Grab your copy of Samhain in Your Pocket: A Tiny Little Book About the Celtic Origins of Halloween
Was There an Irish God Named Samhain?
![Kian's Magic cow and red-haired boy (Balor in disguise).―illustr. by Stephen Reid, in T. W. Rolleston (1910) Myths and Legends.[1]](https://i0.wp.com/irishmyths.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Myths_and_legends_the_Celtic_race_1910_14596782139.jpg?fit=1000%2C645&ssl=1)
Yes. No. Sort of. Look, this is gonna be one of *those* posts, because while there is a character from Irish mythology who bears the name “Samhain,” he’s not what you think.
A Brief History of Samhain: When (and Where) Did Halloween’s Celtic Predecessor Get Its Start?
No history of Halloween would be complete without a history of Samhain. Uncover the archaeological and historical evidence behind Samhain’s ancient Celtic origins.
What Is Samhain? (Definition and Etymology)
What in the Halloween is the definition of Samhain? Where did the word come from? And why did the ancient Celts decide to celebrate Samhain on the 31st night of October?
How Do You Pronounce Samhain?
Learn the authentic Irish pronunciation for “Samhain”, the ancient Celtic feast that inspired Halloween. Hint: it’s not “Sam-hane”.