When we think of Halloween, the first things that come to mind are costumes, pumpkins and sweets. But did you know that many of these traditions come from the Anglo-Saxon world and have centuries of history behind them?
In this article, we tell you how Halloween is celebrated in the Anglo-Saxon world and what curiosities make this holiday one of the most popular in English-speaking countries.
🕯️ The Celtic origins of modern Halloween
Halloween in the Anglo-Saxon world has its roots in the Celtic festival of Samhain, which marked the end of summer and the beginning of winter. The Celts believed that on this night, the spirits of the dead could return to the world of the living.
Over time, this tradition merged with the Christian festival of All Hallows' Eve, from which the word Halloween derives.
How Halloween is celebrated in different Anglo-Saxon countries
United States
In the US, Halloween is one of the most eagerly awaited holidays of the year. Houses are decorated with pumpkins, cobwebs and skeletons, and children roam the streets saying the famous Trick or Treat!
It is common to attend costume parties, watch scary films or take part in decoration competitions.
United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, Halloween has regained popularity in recent decades. Here it is more common to see lanterns carved from turnips rather than pumpkins, and children sing traditional songs before receiving their sweets.
In addition, many cities hold parades or themed fairs inspired by local legends.
Ireland
Ireland is the true origin of Halloween in the Anglo-Saxon world. There, bonfires and traditional games are still an essential part of the night of 31st October.
A typical dessert is barmbrack, a sweet bread with fruit in which small objects are hidden that predict the future, a kind of Irish fortune cookie!
Canada
In Canada, the celebrations are very similar to those in the United States, although with a more family-oriented touch. Schools organise themed activities and costume contests, and neighbourhoods are filled with orange and purple lights.
Typical Halloween vocabulary and expressions in English
Learning English also means learning about its culture. Here are some common expressions related to Halloween in the English-speaking world:
Trick or treat → Trick or treat
Boo! → Boo! (to scare someone)
Haunted house → Haunted house
Witch → Witch
Spooky night → Spooky night
To scare someone stiff → To scare someone stiff
You can practise pronouncing them with your teachers or use them in class during Halloween week.
Celebrate Halloween like a true Brit
If you want to experience an authentic Halloween in the English-speaking world, here are some ideas:
Watch a scary film in its original version.
Learn Halloween songs or chants.
Take part in themed activities in English.
Decorate your classroom or home with new English words.
And above all... have fun while you learn!
Conclusion
Halloween in the English-speaking world is much more than a costume party: it's a window into the culture, language and traditions of English-speaking countries.
At Unilang, we believe that learning English also means learning about its history and way of life.
So this Halloween, dare to practise your English while celebrating one of the most magical nights of the year!
