Beyond the pronunciation, the ancient traditions of Samhain are fascinating. Great bonfires were lit, not just for light, but for purification. People and their livestock would often walk between two fires, as the smoke was believed to have cleansing powers and offer protection from the spirits of the Otherworld during the darkest night of the year. #Samhain #Halloween #Folklore #IrishHistory #fblifestyle | Black Dragon Tavern

The History of Trick-or-Treating The tradition's roots stretch back over 2,000 years to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. Celts believed the boundary between the living and the dead blurred on October 31st, so they wore costumes made from animal skins to disguise themselves from roaming apparitions. As Christianity spread, the church adapted these customs. The practice of 'souling' emerged, where the poor would go door-to-door on All Souls' Day. They received 'soul cakes' from wealthier ho