All Hallows’ Eve

Most of us know it as Halloween. But All Hallows’ Eve — or All Saints’ Eve — began in the 8th century when Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as All Hallows’ Day, a time to honor all saints (hallows). October 31 is the eve of this holiday observed by Christians and many others around the world.

With its pagan roots, Halloween traditions — which originate from the Celtic harvest festival of Samhain — include pumpkin carving, apple bobbing, bonfires, fortune-telling, and more. Church services and candle lighting on graves to honor the deceased still remain part of celebrations worldwide. 

In the early 1900s, natives of Scotland and Ireland brought Halloween to the U.S., with costumes appearing in the 1930s and candy trick-or-treating emerging in the 1950s. Today, more than 180 million Americans take part in Halloween festivities annually. 

Enjoy these recent Halloween party photos from Unificationists in Las Vegas, and have a happy Halloween!