Halloween 101: Origins of Fright Night

Modern Halloween emerges from diverse cultural and religious traditions, each contributing distinct elements to today's celebrations. From the Celtic festival of Samhain to the Roman Catholic Hallowtide, this episode uncovers the historical threads that connect ancient celebrations to contemporary practices.

We examine the influences of Roman festivals like Pomonalia and Lemuria, investigate the connections to England's Guy Fawkes Night, and explore parallels with Mexico's Día de los Muertos. Our discussion reveals how these varied traditions merged to create today's Halloween, with special attention to Salem's emergence as America's Halloween capital.

Featuring insights from past guests,  this episode offers a scholarly look at Halloween's evolution while exploring its connections to witch hunts, folklore, and enduring cultural practices.

Buy Halloween: From Pagan Ritual to Party Night, by Nicholas Rogers 

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