Monday 13 February 2012

Halloween Costumes And Catwoman

By Beam Jim


Halloween is without a doubt an exciting period. Not only for small children but for parents as well. After all, who doesn't like getting decked out as his or her favorite ghoul, goblin, super hero, or bad guy, and setting off trick-or-treating or to a Halloween social gathering. Halloween is an event recognized world wide and in virtually every nation as there are seasonal and religious associations that are popular. It has been around for almost five centuries.

There is some speculation around the origin of Halloween(not the name) but the occasion. Some historians link it to the Roman feast of Pomona, who was the goddess of fruits and seeds. Others believe it commenced as Parentalia, the "festival of the dead". It is nonetheless, more often associated with the Celtic festival referred to as Samhain, a Gaelic event that celebrates the conclusion of summer time.

Of course the name "Halloween" is more popularly linked to the Scottish version of "All-Hallows-Eve", or, the evening prior to All-Hallows-Day or All Saints day. It started in 1556, and throughout the generations All-Hallows-Eve grew to become Halloween. Halloween is October 31st, and is recognized world wide, though not every cultures celebrate on this date. Some nations around the world celebrate on the second Tuesday in December.

Halloween has a great deal of symbolism and imagery that has evolved over time many cultures and movements have contributed to it. Most notably are the Jack-o'-lantern, Dracula, ghosts, death, evil, and dark scary themes. Black and orange are Halloween's official colors. Halloween has spawned a whole industry of costume manufacturers and each year the latest craze of popular movies and characters adds to offerings. In addition there are a lot of activities that have become traditions of Halloween. Trick-or-treating has become the most popular. Kids everywhere get dressed up and go house to house within their neighborhoods collecting candy and sweets. There are Halloween parties, prank playing, games such as bobbing for apples, and attending haunted houses & graveyards.

Popular foods at Halloween are candy or caramel apples, candy corn, popcorn, apple cider, and baked pumpkin seeds. Several other cultures have traditional foods they prepare such as Ireland's barmbrack which is a fruit bread.

Halloween marks the season of the harvest and the end of summer. Fall or Autumn in the northern hemisphere is when the weather turns cool and cultures harvest their crops in preparation of winter. Many people assert it is their favorite season citing cooler weather, back to school, the beginning of the American Football season, and several other reasons. All in all it is a great time and remains an important part of the calendar year.




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