Halloween Traditions in Boston

In Halloween Traditions in Boston, Anthony Sammarco explores the history of the Salem Witch Trials and the whimsical decorations of Beacon Hill, from skulls to lighted jack o'lanterns.

Noah Webster defines Halloween as "October 31: observed especially with dressing up in disguise, trick-or-treating, and displaying jack o'lanterns during the evening." Yet, it is more than just an evening; it embodies a state of mind for merrymaking and masquerade for all ages. Halloween, short for All Hallow’ Eve, originates from the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, marking the end of the harvest season and the onset of winter. 

The jack o'lantern is linked to the Irish tale of Stingy Jack, who, after deceiving the devil, wandered the earth with a lantern made from a turnip. While many view Halloween as an American holiday, its roots are Celtic-European. Americans adopted the tradition of dressing in costumes and going door-to-door for treats, evolving into today's "trick-or-treat" custom. 

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