Did you know? The Halloween tradition of dressing up as scary creatures has its origins in Irish pagan culture! Before it was called Halloween, this festival took place only in Ireland and was known as Samain (or Samhain). It took place during the night, and heralded the end of the harvest season and the start of winter. It’s an opportunity for the Irish to indulge in a few traditions… including dressing up!
One of the most striking traditions of Samain is that of scary costumes and disguises. Originally, these costumes had spiritual significance and were designed to ward off evil spirits or to camouflage oneself from them.
At the time, the Irish believed that the border between the world of the living and that of the dead was at its thinnest during Samain. Costumes were worn as protection against wandering spirits. A way to “camouflage” yourself and avoid attracting attention from evil creatures!
Early costumes were made from natural materials such as animal skins. People also painted their faces with natural pigments to camouflage themselves or look like spirits.
Later, as time went on, masquerade costume became more modern, with the use of handmade fabrics, including sheep’s wool…
Some costumes depicted mythological figures or creatures from Irish folklore. There were representations of fairies, goblins and other supernatural beings…
Over time, the tradition of Samain has evolved and blended with other beliefs and practices. Costumes have become more varied, incorporating elements from other cultures.
That’s why Samain was eventually transformed after the Great Irish Famine, when thousands of Irish emigrated to the United States of America, establishing their festival on the new continent. These traditions eventually influenced the way Halloween is celebrated today, especially when it comes to costumes.
It was then that Samain was renamed Halloween! Since then, the tradition has continued, but the costumes have become particularly sophisticated. There are even specialized Halloween costume boutiques!
Vampires, evil fairies, leprechauns, Jack O’Lanterns, monsters of all kinds… There’s no limit to the imagination of those who celebrate Halloween!
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