Halloween: 6 Facts

This post focuses on Halloween as practiced in the United States and as influenced by European traditions. 
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1. Halloween is an abbreviation of All Hallows Eve.

The word “halloween” comes from the blend word “hallowe’en” which comes from the phrase “All Hallow’s Eve(n).” 

“Hallows Eve(n)” got blended into one word “hallowe’en,” which has since been condensed to halloween.

2. Commercial (or secular) celebrations of Halloween are different from religious observances that happen around the same date.

Wiccans and others observe rituals or celebrations about the time of year that Halloween is observed, but these groups may have religious rites attached to their observances. 

3. Halloween is influenced by earlier holidays.

Samhain is the holiday most often attributed with influencing Halloween traditions. Other ancient holidays that may have influenced Halloween observances include Pomona, All Saints Day, and Guy Fawkes Day.

4. It is estimated that the United States spends over $10 billion on Halloween.

That’s a lot of money for something that lasts only one day! At least with Christmas, the presents can be used for months or years afterwards.

5. It is estimated that $2-$3 billion dollars are spent on candy each Halloween.

Considering how much cheap candy is bought, I wonder how much of that candy (and by proxy, the dollars that bought it) end up in the trash.

6. There is Halloween music.

We might not hear spooky, Halloween-themed music all September and October like we hear Christmas music for months, but there does exist music that people consider Halloween songs.