I am sure many of you are looking forward to (or dreading) this evenings festivities …….the “trick or treaters” at the door, the carving of pumpkins or the search for an outfit for a Halloween party.
It had me wondering where trick or treating came from so I went to my old friend Google and found an interesting article.
The American Halloween tradition of "trick-or-treating" probably dates back to the early All Souls' Day parades in England. During the festivities, poor citizens would beg for food and families would give them pastries called "soul cakes" in return for their promise to pray for the family's dead relatives. The distribution of soul cakes was encouraged by the church as a way to replace the ancient practice of leaving food and wine for roaming spirits. The practice, which was referred to as "going a-souling" was eventually taken up by children who would visit the houses in their neighbourhood and be given ale, food, and money.
I hope your evening is full of treats and no tricks….best get to the shops and get the sweets in!