The belief that the souls of the dead return home on one night of the year and must be appeased seems to have ancient origins and is found in many cultures. In 19th century Ireland, "candles would be lit and prayers formally offered for the souls of the dead. After this the eating, drinking, and games would begin".

Though the day of the week it falls on changes every year, Halloween itself always falls on October 31. Since 2024 is a leap year, Halloween was pushed out an extra day. And that's great because next year, in 2025, Halloween is on a Friday and that truly is something to celebrate!

Halloween, a holiday observed on October 31 and noted for its pagan and religious roots and secular traditions. In much of Europe and most of North America, observance of Halloween is largely nonreligious, celebrated with parties, spooky costumes, jack-o'-lanterns, pumpkin carvings, and the giving of candy.

The All Saints' Day celebration was also called All-hallows or All· Hallowmas (from Middle English Alholowmesse meaning All Saints' Day) and the night before it, the traditional night of Samhain in the Celtic religion, began to be called All-Hallows Eve and, eventually, Halloween.