Halloween’s origins can be traced back to the ancient Celtic festival known as Samhain, which was held on November 1st, in contemporary calendars. It was believed that on that day, the souls of the dead returned to their homes, so people dressed in costumes and lit bonfires to ward off spirits. In this way, popular Halloween tropes such as witches, ghosts, and goblins became associated with the holiday.
On Samhain Night the veil between the Worlds is at its thinnest and Ancestors return home and are honoured by the living. This is a wonderful time to do an Ancestors candle spell as well as reflection on the past year and give thanks.
There are many rituals associated with Samhain today. These include dancing, feasting, taking nature walks, and building altars to honour their ancestors.
Below are some altar ideas:
Apples, pumpkins, nuts, oak leaves- To symbolize the end of the harvest Colours – Black and Orange
Skull or Skelton - To represent the spirits of the dead. Photos of deceased family members are also added.
Incense – Apple, Nutmeg, Sage, Mint
Here are 6 ways to celebrate Samhain
1). Have a feast of harvest goodies.
2). Make a memory table honouring loved ones who have passed away.
3). Write down the habits, activities, feelings etc. that you want to let go of and burn your list in the Samhain fire, stating your intentions. Then write a list of ideas and dreams for the coming year
4). Get outside in the brisk Autumn air and have a run around to get the blood pumping.
5). Have a bonfire under the stars, toasting marshmallows and sharing stories.
6). Give thanks to the beautiful world around you in whatever way feels right, take time to look around and see the world on the cusp of magical change.
Some Wiccans bake loaves of special Samhain bread for the altar, to feed visiting spirits. Some Wiccan families cast a circle and think of their deceased loved ones. As a part of the ritual, they will share stories of their ancestors. Some families choose to visit the cemetery to honour their family members, instead.
However, you choose to Honour your ancestors this Samhain, make sure to be safe and protected.
Blessed Be!