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Commonwealth Museum   Secretary of the Commonwealth William Francis Galvin

Halloween: History of a Holiday

A photo of Jack-o-Lanterns entitled, History of a “Holiday”

Halloween:

History of a “Holiday”


Although not an official holiday, Halloween seems to mark the beginning of a festive holiday season. When the doorbell rings on October 31, pirates, witches, and goblins appear at most American homes. “Trick” or “treating” is an autumn highlight for children, while Halloween costumes and parties are increasingly popular with adults as well. Curious minds may want to know where these customs began, and when they arrived in Massachusetts.