Halloween History and Celebrations at OPHS

Why do we celebrate Halloween anyway?

Halloween is quickly approaching so it’s a good time to learn about the origins of this popular holiday. Halloween originates with the ancient celtic festival of Samhain, which was celebrated On October 31st in Ireland, the United Kingdom, and France. People would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts. In the eighth century, November 1st became All Saints Day, a day to honor all saints. Samhain traditions were soon incorporated into All Saints Day because of Christianity spreading to the Celtic countries. This celebration became similar to Samhain with bonfires and costume parades, as well. The night before, which was the tradition of Samhain, became known as All-Hallows Eve, and later Halloween as we know it today.

How did Halloween get to the United States?

When European and Native American customs mixed, a distinctly American version of Halloween became very popular in the southern US colonies. Neighbors would share stories of the dead, tell each other’s fortunes, and dance and sing. Soon kids began to dress up and go from house to house asking for food or money, forming the tradition of trick-or-treating. The arrival of new immigrants during the 19th century pushed the popularity of Halloween even further, which developed into the classic Halloween traditions we know today, like costumes and trick-or-treating.

What is OPHS doing to celebrate Halloween?

For Halloween, the class of 2025 organized a spirit week and costume contest! After a Spirit Week that included wearing pink in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Black and Orange Day, White-Out Wednesday, Halloween Apparel Day, and Friday Bills Day. A costume contest will be held on October 31, at 2 p.m. in the Commons. There will be prizes for the best costume, funniest costume, and more! And don’t forget to wear your Halloween costume to school on Monday, October 31st (no masks allowed).