samain

Samhain, often spelled Samain, is an ancient Celtic festival marking the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. It is traditionally celebrated on the night of October 31st, leading into November 1st. This period was seen as a liminal time, a boundary between the world of the living and the world of the dead, when the veil between these realms was believed to be thinnest.

Druids, the priests of the ancient Celts, would conduct sacred ceremonies, often involving bonfires, to ward off evil spirits and honor the departed. Offerings of food and drink were made to appease supernatural forces and ensure good fortune for the coming year. It was also a time for divination, as it was believed that the future was more easily revealed during this transitional period.

The customs associated with Samhain have influenced many modern traditions, most notably Halloween. The practice of dressing up in costumes and going door-to-door for treats may have roots in ancient attempts to disguise oneself from spirits or to reenact ancient rituals. The symbolism of the harvest and the coming darkness also resonates in contemporary celebrations. While its exact origins are debated, Samhain remains a significant cultural and historical festival.