A Brief History of SAMHAIN

SAMHAIN- (pronounced /ˈsɑːwɪn/ SAH-win or /ˈsaʊ.ɪn/ SOW-in, Irish pronunciation: [sˠəuɪnʲ]) is one of four Gaelic seasonal festivals that has been observed throughout Ireland, Scotland, and beyond. Believed to be of Celtic-Pagan origins, Samhain marks the end of harvest season and the beginning of winter- the darker half of the year, celebrated from 31 October to 1 November. Traditionally this is when the Celtic day began and ended at sunset. This is about halfway between autumn equinox and the winter solstice. Similar festivals are held at the same time of year in other Celtic lands; for example the Brythonic Calan Gaeaf ( Wales), Kalan Gwav( Cornwall), and Kalan Goañv (Brittany).

According to early Irish literature, many important events in Irish Mythology happen or begin in Samhain. Cattle were brought back down from the summer pastures and livestock were slaughtered for the winter. Much like the time of Bealtaine, bonfires were lit for protective and cleansing purposes and there were rituals involved. It was another time of year for the Celts where the boundary between our world and the Other world was thinnest- crossing over would be much easier. This was said to be especially true for the Aos Si, the spirits or fairies, who where likely pagan gods and nature spirits, as well as souls of the dead coming back home to seek hospitality.

At Samhain, it was believed that the Aos Sí needed to be appeased to ensure that the people and their livestock survived the winter. Offerings of food and drink were left outside for them. In order to trick the Aos Si, miming and guising occurred in which people would go door-to-door dressed in strong disguises or costumes so they would not be recognised by the spirits. Verses would be sung at the doors in exchange for food. 

Large festivals were always had at this time of year, at which the souls of dead kin were asked to attend and a place set at the table for them. Divination rituals and games were also part of the festival and often involved nuts and apples.

Yes, from Bewitched...(an example kinda.) Loved the show

Also according to mythology, a Cat Sìth will bless any house that leaves out a saucer of milk on the Samhain. Houses that don't will be cursed......👾