The turnip lantern derives from the fact that the Druids used to have slung over their shoulder on a cord a hollowed-out turnip, with an oil lamp burning inside, which was supposedly their personal god and guide. Later, in America a pumpkin was used rather than a turnip. The spirits of the dead were regarded as liable to return to their homes on the 31st October and cast spells or play tricks unless appeased by a treat, usually food. This is the origin of "Trick or Treat". People also dressed up in hideous masks to disguise themselves among the evil spirits. Bobbing for apples in water without using the hands and also being able to peel them in one piece were seen as gaining favour with the spirits. Bonfires were lit to frighten off evil spirits and someone would often go round the edge of the village with burning sticks for this purpose.
Posted on: Mon, 07 Oct 2013 07:17:52 +0000
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