Halloween ranks right up near the top as one of my favorite holidays. I must have passed my enthusiasm on to our son as he loves the holiday almost as much as Christmas. With all the leaves on the ground and candy in the stores I am very much looking forward to October.
However, there is a significant difference in the way Halloween has developed in Scotland as opposed to the United States. Halloween customs in Scotland these days consist chiefly of children going door to door ‘guising’ and performing a song or telling a joke before receiving money, apples or sweets. On Halloween night you primarily go to surrounding neighbours (in large groups) and everyone is invited into the homes.
Our first year was quite a surprise as I had no idea this was the custom. I kindly refused the offer to ‘come in’ from several homes before I realized that I was being rude. For those who live the US it’s hard to imagine inviting every child into your home. It’s actually good fun and a great way for the whole family to socialize.
That sounds like so much fun. I would love to get a little song or dance before the sugar grabbing begins.
ReplyDeleteWhen I lived there, one of the kids whose father I lived with, was Dracula's Dad for Halloween... he was 4 at the time. I did it more the American way and just doled out candy. But the our kids did carve pumpkins (for about five mins, then Andy and I took over!).
ReplyDeleteI love it! It really brings forth the concept, "it takes a village to raise a child"! When I was growing up my neighbors were more than the people who lived next door, down the street or around the corner, they were like family.
ReplyDeleteI always felt welcomed in their homes.
Those were the good 'ole days! Things are so much different now. I love to hear about neighbors bonding over the living room/dining room table. What a fantastic way for your son to grow up! Enjoy!
My daughter and I try and personalize Halloween by dressing up ourselves every year as the Witches of Eastwick and go out trick or treating with the kids, but we have never been invited into homes.
ReplyDeleteThat sounds like a great tradition, very friendly and social. I think we might try it this year here in Canada. Thanks for sharing this tradition.
Hi Ronda,
ReplyDeleteI love the holiday, but have to admit it is always stressful......What to wear and being an Aussie I have found myself out on the wrong night in costume.Yep!!!! Also when you get the chance check out my post on Western Interiors Mag.
Just yesterday, the first Halloween party arrived an e-vite, and I thought to myself, hmm, now why can't I remember the costume that I so brilliantly thought of
ReplyDeleteback in July! Living in the land of the Headless Horseman - Halloween is an incredibly exciting time here. Wish Washington Irving was around to relish in his story.
Sorry for the delay in responding! Thanks for all the comments and responses!! And thank you Jordan for the mention on your blog!
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