With Halloween a little over a week away, we’re feeling positively spook-tacular! Recently we’ve been sharing ways to get in the spirit with DIY crafts and festive activities. However, have you thought about the history of the holiday? We did some digging and compiled five fun facts you may not have known about this frightfully fun occasion!
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1. Jack-O-Lanterns: Believe it or not, jack-o-lanterns weren’t always pumpkins! According to history, they began in Ireland and Scotland as carved, illuminated turnips and potatoes to ward off evil. When immigrants from these countries came to the United States, they realized that pumpkins were a sturdier alternative.
2. Popular Costumes: According to research, princess costumes will reign supreme as the most popular choice for the eleventh straight year! A close second is Batman and his squad of superheroes.
3. Candy Corn: The classic multi-colored candy has become iconic in relation to Halloween. Its seasonal colors and name have linked it to the fall and harvest since its debut in the 1880s. However, it became integrated with Halloween festivities in the 1950s with the rise of trick or treating post the sugar ration of World War II.
4. Pumpkin Spice: The popularity of this fall favorite reaches epic proportions this time of year, but did you know actual pumpkin is rarely an ingredient? More often than not, this seasonal staple gets its flavor from a blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice.
5. Orange and Black: Although there is no definitive answer, many believe Halloween’s association with orange and black dates back to the holiday’s origins. Orange is linked to the rich hues of the autumn harvest while black is likened to darkness and mystery.
