Halloween Sidelight Signs © Bless’er House
The final day in October is that night of the year when children throughout the world go from door to door asking three words to the homeowner who answers the door – “Trick or Treat?”. So where does this tradition originate? I assumed it was a fairly recent tradition founded in the United States, however it seems that the practice of going door to door in search of treats or food goes back to the Middle Ages. There is a similar old custom called “Souling” which involved poor people offering prayers for the dead in exchange for food. This took place on All Souls Day, which is 2nd November.
Dressing up in disguise has been practised in Scotland for some time and there is a record of people going from door to door dressed up and carrying lanterns back in the 19th century.
The term “Trick or Treat” appears to be an American invention and it was not commonly used elsewhere until fairly recently after it was picked up from films and cartoons. Personally I have noticed in the last couple of years that children are increasingly saying “Happy Halloween” when I answer the door, which I guess is a more positive phrase and it removes the threat of devious behaviour and damage.
Are you looking forward to the knock at the door from dressed up children or do you dread this time of year? I don’t mind the tradition and will stock up on sweets and treats ready for the event.
With all these new guests calling at your door, it may remind you that you are due a new one. If your Front Door is the scariest looking thing on Halloween night then check out the vast collection of wooden doors at Kershaws Doors where you are sure to find a style to suit your home.
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