Halloween is the time to embrace costumes, candy, and scary decorations because it is a beloved day in Canada! But have you ever wondered about the origins of Halloween and why it falls on October 31st? In this blog, we’ll dive into the history of this day and modern celebrations that you can join in on this year.

There are a few special events offered on Canoo, so download the app and check out the Escape the Museum night in Kingston or the Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada’s Halloween experience in Winnipeg.

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Dévoiler les origines d'Halloween

Histoire d'Halloween

Pour vraiment comprendre Halloween, nous devons voyager dans le temps. Ses racines remontent aux anciennes fêtes celtiques, principalement à Samhain. Samhain marquait la fin de la saison des récoltes et le début de l'hiver dans le calendrier celtique. À cette époque de l’année, la frontière entre les vivants et les morts s’estompe, permettant aux esprits de se déplacer librement. Les gens allumaient des feux de joie et portaient des costumes pour tenter de conjurer les mauvais fantômes.

Pourquoi le 31 octobre est Halloween ?

The date of October 31st, is closely tied to Samhain. It marked the end of the Celtic year. At this time, the veil between worlds was believed to be the thinnest. As Christianity spread, Samhain evolved with Christian traditions, leading to the establishment of All Saints’ Day (All Hallows’ Day) on November 1st. October 31st, the evening before All Saints’ Day, became known as All Hallows’ Eve, later shortened to Halloween.

Traditions d'Halloween

Halloween has changed over centuries, blending various cultural influences. In Canada today, it’s all about dressing up in costumes, carving pumpkins, and going trick-or-treating – where children go from house to house in their neighbourhoods asking for candy.

A parent taking their child trick or treating on Halloween.
Crédit : Haley Phelps

Symboles spéciaux et leurs significations

Halloween is full of iconic symbols, each with its own unique meaning. The Jack-o’-lantern, which is a pumpkin carved with a face and lit up with a candle originally began as carved turnips in Ireland and Scotland. It is meant to ward off evil spirits with its illuminated face. Black cats are also often tied to superstitions, either as bad omens or symbols of protection, depending on who you ask.

Mythes et légendes d'Halloween

Halloween also has a rich tapestry of myths and legends woven into its history. One such myth is the legend of the Headless Horseman. With many versions existing across the world, the popularized tale in North America came in 1820 with the publication of “The Legend of Sleepy Hallow,” where a demonic ghost riding in the dead of night appears headless and attacks a young man named Ichabod Crane. The tales have evolved to the Headless Horseman carrying their own head, no head at all or a carved pumpkin in its place.

Célébrations modernes dans le monde entier

Halloween dans le monde

While Halloween’s roots are in Celtic and Christian traditions, it has taken on various forms around the world. In Mexico, the Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos) honours deceased loved ones with family celebrations and decorated altars. In Japan, Halloween has become a popular event, although it’s more focused on costumes and decorations. You’ll find one spectacular celebration at Tokyo Disneyland!

Halloween au Canada

In Canada, Halloween has a special history. While it shares many traditions with the United States, Canada’s role in popularizing “trick-or-treat” is significant. The phrase “trick-or-treat” is believed to have originated in Alberta in the late 1920s. It has since become synonymous with Halloween.

Halloween decorations that say trick or treat.
Crédit : Nick Fewings

Conseils et divertissements pour Halloween

Idées de fête

You’ll often find people celebrate with a costume party, too. But whether you’re hosting adults or children, there are endless possibilities for themed decorations, creepy snacks, and costume contests. Get inspired and create a memorable Halloween gathering that becomes an annual tradition with you and your friends!

Sécurité pendant les festivités d'Halloween

Même si le 31 octobre est synonyme de plaisir, la sécurité doit toujours être une priorité, surtout quand des enfants sont impliqués. Découvrez les conseils de sécurité essentiels pour les friandises et les fêtes afin de garantir une nuit remplie de plaisir et de sécurité.

Cliquez ici pour plus d'informations sur la sécurité pendant Halloween pour vous et vos enfants.

From its ancient origins in Samhain to its modern-day festivities and traditions, Halloween continues to captivate and inspire people of all ages. Whether you’re carving pumpkins, putting on a scary costume, or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere, there is something for everyone.

Continuez à profiter de l’automne au Canada avec notre guide pour découvrir la beauté des couleurs changeantes. Cliquez ici pour plus d'informations.


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