Practiced on

During the Halloween Season 

(Home Haunts are far more elaborate than simply season decorating.)

Country of Origin 

United States - 19th Century

Key Points / Halloween Connection

- Modernization of the Celtic Samhain festival

- Early Halloween parties were known as play parties

Brief Bio

The history of Halloween parties traces back to ancient Celtic festivals like Samhain, which featured bonfires and costuming to ward off spirits. These traditions blended with those of other cultures as they were brought to America by European immigrants, particularly the Irish, in the 19th century. Initially, early American Halloween gatherings, called "play parties," involved sharing ghost stories and telling fortunes, but the holiday eventually evolved into a more lighthearted, community-centered celebration with parades and parties.