There are traditions across the globe this time of year that celebrate harvest, light, unity, and honor those who have passed. They offer a sense of connection, give tribute to our heritage, and embrace the natural cycles that continue to shape our lives.
Halloween, October 31
There is much fun and whimsy in the way we currently celebrate Halloween each year. Trick or treating, haunted houses, horror movies, decorating our homes, incorporating crystal carvings, and wearing costumes are things associated with this holiday but this date has a deeper meaning and origin. The evolution of Halloween can be traced back to the Celts celebration of Samhain (pronounced "sow-win"). The Celts divided their year into light (Summer) and dark (Winter) and on this particular date they celebrated their harvest, hard work, and prepared for the coming months. They also believed the veil between the worlds of the living and dead were thinnest during this time and spirits walked amongst them. They took measures to ward off low lying spirits and made offerings to the spirits of their visiting ancestors. Those blessed with Sight, such as Seers and Oracles, used this powerful energy to make predictions and prophecies. A large bonfire was built to bring in light and for protection. Each hearth was lit with this sacred fire to protect their homes in the coming months. It was and can continue to be a deeply spiritual time to honor our ancestors, celebrate the cycles of life and death, and embrace the onset of winter.
Diwali, "The Festival of Lights", October 29-November 2
This tradition rooted in Hindu, has evolved to become a celebration that transcends religions and brings together communities worldwide. It symbolizes "light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance". The days are dedicated to prosperity and abundance in health, new beginnings, and blessings for future happiness and success. Homes and communities are illuminated with lights, candles, and fireworks symbolizing the removal of darkness, warding off low lying energies, and bringing joy into each community. Exchanging of sweets with friends and neighbors offer goodwill and symbolize the "sweetness" of life. Vibrant pops of orange, yellow, magenta, and blue are woven into clothing and decorations to bring in joy, good luck, and positive energy. This uplifting holiday is a reminder of life's beauty and unity over division.
Día de los Muertos, November 1-2
This tradition also known as "Day of the Dead", is largely celebrated in Mexico as a day to honor loved ones who have passed. Decorations and offerings combined with food, music, and stories are used to mark the ancestors who have passed on. Ofrendas (or altars) are created in homes, cemeteries, and public spaces using photographs, personal items, and candles to honor them. Cempasúchil, bright orange marigold flowers, that adorn ofrendas are thought to guide their loved ones back to the world of the living. Water for thirst, salt for purification, candles for fire, and the favorite food of the deceased are some of the items placed on the ofrenda to help nourish them on their journey. One of the most recognized symbol is the calaveras, or sugar skull. The skull represents the cycle of life and death and ancient wisdom that is passed down for generations. The bright colors used to decorate them are a reminder that our loved ones remain with us in our hearts and memories. Colorful papel picado (or paper banners) are cut into intricate designs and strung about to represent wind, adding movement to the celebration. Favorite food and drinks of passed loved ones are prepared, including pan de muerto (bread of the dead), to represent the cycle of life. These traditions celebrate and honor our ancestors and life's natural cycles.
All of these traditions continue to evolve, preserving our ancient traditions that keep our loved ones alive in spirit and in the hearts of family and our community. We come together as one across the globe to celebrate unity over division, shared love of our distinct cultures, and reflect on our inner light and the beauty of togetherness!
