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All Hallows' Eve, celebrated annually on , is the evening vigil preceding All Saints' Day (November 1st). The name is derived from the Old English word "hallow," meaning "holy" or "sanctified," making it literally the "holy evening". Historical Origins
The holiday is a blend of ancient Celtic and medieval Christian traditions: All Hallows Eve
: Many modern traditions stem from the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain (pronounced "sow-in"), which marked the end of the harvest and the start of the "dark half" of the year. It was believed that the boundary between the living and the dead blurred during this time, allowing spirits to walk the earth. All Hallows' Eve, celebrated annually on , is
: In the 8th century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as a time to honor all saints. This created Allhallowtide , a three-day period consisting of All Hallows' Eve, All Saints' Day, and All Souls' Day (November 2), dedicated to remembering the deceased, martyrs, and saints. The Goodness and Glory of All Hallow's Eve It was believed that the boundary between the