Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Poison Ivy At Halloween

By Frank Lyman


Halloween is definitely a thrilling season. Not simply for small children but for men and women also. After all, what person doesn't like getting dressed up as his or her favorite ghoul, goblin, superhero, or bad guy, and go out trick-or-treating or to a Halloween party. Halloween is an event recognized worldwide and in virtually every nation as there are seasonal and religious associations which are widespread. It has been around for nearly 500 years.

There is some conjecture over the beginning of Halloween(not the name) but the occasion. Some historians link it to the Roman feast of Pomona, who was the goddess of fruits and seeds. Others believe it began as Parentalia, the "festival of the dead". It is nonetheless, more frequently associated with the Celtic festival called Samhain, a Gaelic occurrence that celebrates the end of summertime.

Of course the name "Halloween" is more widely linked with the Scottish version of "All-Hallows-Eve", or, the evening before All-Hallows-Day or All Saints day. It originated in 1556, and throughout the generations All-Hallows-Eve evolved into Halloween. Halloween is October 31st, and is commemorated around the world, though not all cultures celebrate on this date. Some nations around the world celebrate on the second Tuesday in December.

Halloween has lots of symbolism and imagery which has developed over time and lots of civilizations and movements have contributed to it. Most notably are the Jack-o'-lantern, Dracula, ghosts, death, evil, and dark scary themes. Black and orange are Halloween's official colors. Halloween has spawned a whole industry of costume manufacturers and each year the latest craze of popular movies and characters contributes to offerings.

There's also a number of activities that have become traditions of Halloween. Trick-or-treating is among the most popular. Kids nationwide get dressed up and go house to house within their neighborhoods collecting candy and treats. There are Halloween celebrations, prank playing, games which include bobbing for apples, and attending haunted houses & graveyards.

Favorite foods at Halloween are candy or caramel apples, candy corn, popcorn, apple cider, and baked pumpkin seeds. Many other cultures have traditional foods they prepare for instance Ireland's barmbrack that is a fruit bread.

Halloween marks the season of the harvest and the end of summer. Fall or Autumn in the northern hemisphere is when the weather turns cool and cultures harvest their crops in preparation of winter. Many people maintain it is their favorite season citing cooler weather, back to school, the start of the American Football season, and many other reasons. All in all it is a great time and remains an important part of the calendar year.




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