One theory suggests that many Halloween traditions are rooted in Celtic harvest festivals like Samhain. These European customs made their way to North America with 19th-century immigrants, and American influences have since spread the associated symbolism worldwide.
Camosun College anthropology instructor Nicole Kilburn and forensic anthropology instructor Dr. Katie Waterhouse believe Halloween is rich with symbolism waiting to be unmasked
"Many popular activities, such as pumpkin carving, have their origins in spooky folklore," explains Kilburn. "In Ireland and England, it became customary to carve root vegetables and display them as Jack-O'-Lanterns around the end of October. When these traditions reached the New World, pumpkins became the preferred choice for carving."
Bloodthirsty vampires and skeletal remains in graveyards are also iconic symbols of Halloween.
