Thank you, Deano Holzbauer in Weyauwega, WI, for this week's cover image! |
It’s very likely that Halloween celebrations are going to look a little different this year, but the origins of the holiday remain the same. Halloween is believed to have originated from a Celtic festival called Samhain, which celebrated summer’s end. During Samhain, and as the warmth and light of summer faded to fall and winter’s chill and bluster, the Celtics believed that the veil between the worlds of the living and the dead was at its most transparent. Eventually, the traditions of Samhain evolved into All Hallows’ Day or Allhallowmas, with “hallow” meaning “to sanctify.” This was celebrated on November 1, with October 31 being known as All Hallows’ Eve, which was soon shortened to Hallowe’en—the ghoulishly wonderful holiday that we celebrate today! There is, of course, so much more to Halloween. From witches and pumpkin carving to trick-or-treating and scary costumes, learn all about the origins of Halloween. Whatever your plans for Halloween, with us they’re in the bag! Learn how to carve a pumpkin, make wickedly delicious Halloween treats, create creepy DIY makeup, and more Halloween History, Crafts, and Recipes! Of course, Halloween or not, ’tis the season for pumpkin. Check out our 12 Favorite Pumpkin Recipes—sweet and savory! This time of year—right in the heart of fall—might as well be called “fell,” considering the state of most of the leaves. To rake or not to rake? We have the answer! While you’re tidying up your yard for the season, consider these cleanup tips for how to make your spring garden even better! Finally, whether you have an abundance of end-of-summer vegetables and fruit from the garden or have just stocked up at a farmers’ market, here’s your guide to Storing Vegetables and Fruit, including which should be refrigerated.
As sure as the Sun will rise and set each day, The Old Farmer’s Almanac is here for you, now and always. Your Friends from The Old Farmer’s Almanac |