Halloween
Halloween traces its origins to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. Over time, it transformed from a pagan tradition into a celebration filled with costumes, parties, jack-o'-lanterns and trick-or-treating enjoyed by both children and adults.
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From pagan rituals to costumes and candy corn, discover how Halloween—and its associated traditions—has evolved through the ages.
The witch flying on her broomstick is a Halloween icon, possibly based on pagan fertility rituals, hallucinogenic herbs and church doctrine.
The best horror movies hold up a mirror to our collective fears and taboos.
Before we carved pumpkins, the Irish chiseled creepy faces onto turnips.
Vampire History
Vampire History
Vampire legends have permeated many cultures, but is there any truth to these blood-sucking, un-dead creatures?
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Halloween festivities have been part of White House history since the 1950s.
Halloween originated with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. Learn all about its history, costumes, foods, Halloween movies and more.
From pagan rituals to costumes and candy corn, discover how Halloween—and its associated traditions—has evolved through the ages.
The practice can be traced to the ancient Celts, early Roman Catholics and 17th-century British politics.
The classic short story is an example of early American folklore. But tales of headless horseman date back to the Middle Ages.
Explore the origins behind witch costume features—the hat, the black dress, prominent nose and green skin.
The Day of the Dead (el Día de los Muertos) is a Mexican holiday where families welcome back the souls of dead relatives for a reunion.
What began as ceremonies practiced by the ancient Aztecs evolved into a holiday recognized far beyond the borders of Mexico.
When teenage boys vandalized towns on Halloween of 1933, town leaders created parties, parades and haunted houses to keep them occupied.
Skeletons have long marked the boundary between life and death, with bones representing mortality and the spirit world.
Which famous French explorer is credited with naming them?
Before we carved pumpkins, the Irish chiseled creepy faces onto turnips.
