Illustration
Breadcrumbs
Breadcrumbs - not the greatest for wildlife - were sprinkled atop properties to distract spirits from performing malevolent acts.
Illustration
Carved Roots
Pumpkins became the root vegetable of choice for jack o' lanterns after Halloween gained popularity in North America.
Illustration
Graverobber
Candles were lit for deceased loved ones to help guide them to the Underworld.
Illustration
Haunted House
Food offerings were left outside homes to prevent ghosts from coming inside.
Illustration
Hiding Spot
Household weapons - like knives - were kept in secret hiding spots; hidden from any evil spirits that may have entered.
Illustration
Matchmakers
An abandoned array of matchmaking rituals; apple bobbing, peeling apples, the view of a mirror through a secondary mirror, burning hazelnuts, egg yolks floating in bowls of water, and hiding items like thimbles in dishes like mashed potatoes.
Illustration
Samhain
One of the many rituals to ward off bad spirits; animals and crops were sacrificed into bonfires. These gatherings were also a chance to have fun and share fortune telling predictions.
Illustration
Soul-o
The habit of storing cups and mugs upside down originally wasn't to prevent dust, but spirits hiding inside.
Illustration
Trick or Treat?
Teenage mischief was always a thing; treats were given to prevent tricks.
Work by
Emily Fin
““Happy Halloween” explores the notion that some traditions should remain as a piece of history that we study rather than practice. When we try to be good by keeping these traditions alive, but...” [More]