Halloween Legends and Lore Festival

Halloween Legends and Lore explores the rich history and traditions surrounding Halloween, rooted in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. This festival marked the end of the harvest season and was believed to thin the veil between the living and the dead, allowing spirits to roam freely. Central figures in Halloween lore include the Headless Horseman, a ghostly character from Washington Irving’s “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” who seeks his missing head. Additionally, the tradition of carving Jack-o’-lanterns originated from Irish folklore, specifically the tale of Stingy Jack, who tricked the Devil and wandered with a lantern made from a turnip. These stories and customs have evolved over time, blending ancient beliefs with modern celebrations.