Happy Halloween 2021
Halloween is fast approaching and we’re already seeing the shops filling up with paranormal paraphernalia. It’s a holiday celebrated all around the world, but did you know that many of the traditions central to Halloween have their origins here in Ireland?
Samhain
Halloween is rooted in the Celtic festival of Samhain, which celebrated the end of one year and the beginning of the next. At this time of transition, it was believed that the barrier between the physical and spiritual realms became blurred and ghosts, fairies and other supernatural entities could make their way into the human world. In order to scare off evil spirits and deceased enemies, the Celts would light bonfires and dress in frightening costumes – practices we still see at Halloween to this day!
Jack O’Lanterns
The original Jack O’Lanterns were actually carved from turnips rather than pumpkins, as pumpkins are not native to Ireland. The Celts would carve faces into vegetables and place them outside their houses to ward off any unwelcome spirits and wicked fairies who supposedly wandered the earth at this time of year. The lanterns got their name from the legend of a young man, Jack, who gambled with the Devil and won a promise that he would never take his soul, but was denied entry to Heaven for his sinful behaviour. Being kept from both Heaven and Hell, Jack was cursed to roam the hills of Ireland for all eternity with nothing but a carved turnip and a lump of burning coal to light his way.
Trick or Treat
Trick or treating is often believed to be an American practice, but like so many other traditions it also has its roots in Celtic Ireland. Small offerings such as eggs, nuts and fruit were collected from each house to protect against bad luck and ensure a safe harvest. Those who were stingy with their offerings, though, risked mischievous tricks being played on them, such as gates being moved or signposts spun around!
Here at Office Supplies Ireland we’re very proud of our heritage, and it’s great to see how influential Irish culture has been on a worldwide celebration like Halloween!