Halloween (October 31) is a contraction of “All Hallow’s Evening” or “All Saints’ Eve.” It marks the beginning of the three days of observance of Allhallowtide, the name given to the Catholic liturgical year dedicated to honoring the dead, including saints (hallows) and other departed souls. The celebrations include All Saint’s Day (November 1) and All Soul’s Day (November 2) which are both dedicated to praying for the souls of the dead.

Halloween’s roots are believed to have originated from the Celtic harvest festivals that have their own pagan roots, including the Gaelic festival of Samhain that marks the end of the harvest and the entering into the dark time of the year, or winter.

Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos) is a traditional Mexican holiday that celebrates the gathering of families and friends to pray and remember those who have died, helping to support them on their spiritual journeys. The festival dates back to the times of the Aztecs and has now spread throughout the world being absorbed into other deep traditions of honoring the dead.

All the festivals celebrate the end of harvest, the recognition of the dead and the oncoming of winter. They are times of ghosts, souls and spirits. Through prayer, costume and the offering of foods and candies, the dead are celebrated, remembered and aided on their journey to the spirit world.

We wish you a Happy Halloween and a spirited Dia de los Muertos! Peace to all and happy harvest.