Our expert team of paranormal investigators specializes in local ghost tours that will provide you with an up-close-and-personal look at Texas’ spookiest locations with ghostly tales that are sure to induce terror!  Today, we’re taking a look at the history of Halloween!

The Origins of Halloween

Halloween is the celebration observed in many countries on 31 October each year. Many believe that Halloween traditions are born from ancient Celtic harvest celebrations like Samhain, which may have had pagan roots.  Most historic authorities note that Samhain may have been Christianized on All Hallow's Day, along with its eve, by the early Church. Other academics believe, however, that Halloween began solely as a Christian holiday, being the vigil of All Hallow's Day.

Traditions of Halloween

One of the most popular holidays globally, Halloween activities include trick-or-treating, holding costume parties, carving pumpkins, and various other thrill-seeking events and activities. From collecting candy with the kids to visiting the drive-in theatre to watch a scary movie double feature, there are many Halloween traditions to explore and observe!

Why Americans Celebrate Halloween

First and foremost, it’s unbelievable fun! You can go out for a night masquerading as anyone you wish you to be and revel in conduct that might otherwise be considered unordinary. You can pretend to be a cowboy or live the life of a famous rock star; the only limits are your imagination. It’s a night to live loud and enjoy yourself, and that’s why Halloween has become so popular in the USA. 

Halloween Going Retail

From ghoulish merchandise to goblin-friendly candy, Halloween and retail go hand in hand!  Immigrants from Scotland and Ireland brought the holiday to the United States. The commercialization of Halloween started in the 1900s when Retailers produced postcards and die-cut paper decorations. Halloween costumes started to appear in stores in the 1930s, and the custom of 'trick-or-treat' appeared in the 1950s.  This year, the retail industry expects Americans to spend over $10 billion on tricks and treats!

RJA Ghost Tours has given ghoulish ghost tours for San Antonio and Corpus Christi for over ten years!  Our tour leaders are trained professionally in the realm of myth, mysticism, history, folklore, and of course, all the creatures that go bump in the night.  Learn more about our tours today and how to book your trip into the unknown!

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