Halloween Stolen

It has come to the attention of the authorities that Halloween was stolen. In an initial, though as yet unconfirmed, report Americans are under suspicion for the theft.

Spirits

Halloween has been traced back to the ancient Celtic tradition of Samhain (said as sow-in). In old Irish it means the end of summer. It’s a Celtic festival to mark the end of one year and beginning of a new one. It’s a time of transition – the spirits of those who have died can move to the next life.

Fawkes

November 1st is the Christian festival of All Hallows (all saints) – the day before is the eve of All Hallows (Halloween). It is the last gathering before winter. Bonfires are lit and fireworks set off. The whole fireworks and bonfires thing was probably nicked from the English and their Guy Fawkes thing.

Off

Drew Harris the chief Garda launched an investigation into the matter and it’s thought that those responsible could face jail time for the crime of cultural mis-approrpiation. That’s where others people’s customs are taken and “passed off” as your own.

Result

A secondary charge could result in the incorrect use of the puca – a spiritual creature or ghost also associated with this time. Puca’s have been badly mis-represented in scary movies.

Games

Progress on the case has been slow but definite leads are being followed. It’s thought that Irish and Scottish immigrants brought their traditions to the US and Canada in the 19th century. The night is celebrated as people in fancy dress eat treats, play games and play tricks/pranks.

Trick

The origins of trick or treating may have come from the tradition of rambling from one house to another to play games. The original carved lanterns were made with turnips. In the Americas pumpkins were easier to get hold of than the root vegetable so they were used instead.

House to house searches will be conducted tomorrow night.