Are you looking for a scare? Fright this way!
Halloween is a holiday filled with thrills. Monsters, witches, ghouls, and goblins roam the streets searching for tasty treats. Both young and old don costumes that are inspired by their wildest imaginations. The flickering light of jack-o-lanterns, joyous sounds of laughter, and children calling “trick or treat!” echo through the evening. Amidst the playful scares and spooky decorations, a festive ambiance leads to lasting memories and a feeling of excitement that will linger long after the candy is gone.
Do you want to learn more about the origins of Halloween and how the celebrations of October 31st have transformed over the years into the holiday we know and love today? Read on if you dare to uncover the captivating history of Halloween and unveil the East Ohio College (EOC) team’s most beloved spooky season traditions!
More Than Pumpkins and Candy
The origins of Halloween trace back centuries to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, when it was believed that the veil between the living and the dead was particularly thin. The Celts believed that on the night of October 31st, the spirits of the departed would return to the earthly realm. To appease these spirits, the living would offer food in hopes of receiving their protection during the harsh winter months. This date also signified the conclusion of the harvest season and the onset of winter.
As Christianity spread, Samhain evolved into All Hallows’ Eve, a sacred occasion dedicated to honoring saints and martyrs. Over time, All Hallows’ Eve transformed into the Halloween celebration we recognize today. The merging of pagan traditions with Christian customs has created a lively tapestry of practices that characterize the Halloween we know and love today.
Today, Halloween is celebrated around the globe, with each culture showcasing its unique traditions and interpretations that resonate with the holiday’s rich heritage. By exploring the origins of this spooky day, one can gain a deeper appreciation for its cultural importance and historical foundations.
East Ohio College Creeps It Real
From exciting pumpkin carving competitions to hair-raising storytelling, the EOC team wholeheartedly embraces the Halloween celebrations! These magical traditions turn the spooky season into a joyful occasion filled with laughter, wonder, and treasured memories as our staff dives into the Halloween spirit. Continue reading to discover what five EOC team members love about this enchanting holiday.
Jamie Stine – EOC Dental Assisting Program Director
“Every year, my husband, daughter, and I carve pumpkins and watch Halloween movies. We do not show each other our pumpkins until we are all done. I love the memories we make doing this.”
Craig Monte – EOC Career Management Director
“ My favorite Halloween traditions are decorating the front porch, handing out candy, and having pizza.”
Tammy Clutter – EOC Nursing Program Director
“As a child, we would trick-or-treat door to door in our neighborhood. As adults, we took our children to the neighborhood that we grew up in so that we could touch base with old neighbors, and they could meet our children and stay in touch on a yearly basis. Now, with grown adults, we just hang out at home and watch movies.”
Jon Ream – EOC Orientation Coordinator
“I don’t really have a tradition other than taking the kids trick-or-treating. However, I do get excited when Halloween is here because I start decorating for Christmas the very next day!”
Hailea DeWitt – EOC Nursing Admissions Team Member
“My favorite Halloween tradition is making popcorn balls for our neighborhood trick-or-treaters with my family. It started as a Halloween treat for my dad, aunt, and cousins. They kept the tradition for their kids and expanded it to a treat for the neighborhood kids. Now, we include my son in the fun, too. The popcorn balls alone are worth the hassle, but what truly makes them special is the time we get to spend together as a family.”
Happy Hauntings From East Ohio College!
The EOC team wishes you a Halloween full of joy, tasty treats, unforgettable moments, and maybe a little fright!
If the idea of furthering your education frightens you— fear not! East Ohio College is here to help you conquer those fears and lead you toward a new healthcare career that won’t haunt your dreams! All spooky spirits are welcome at EOC, so request information today to get on the path to your brighter future!