Halloween: Why are sweets being handed out?
Every year on October 31st, millions of children dress up and go trick-or-treating, knocking on doors with the famous phrase "Trick or Treat ." But why have sweets become such a central part of Halloween? Where did this sugary tradition, which delights children and adults alike, come from? In this article, we delve into the history and evolution of this practice to understand why sweets hold such an important place at Halloween.
The origins of candy distribution
The tradition of handing out candy on Halloween has its roots in several ancient customs, particularly those related to the Celtic festival of Samhain. During this festival, the Celts believed that the spirits of the dead returned to Earth. To appease these spirits, they left food and offerings outside their doors. This practice aimed to ward off malevolent spirits and ensure the protection of the home and its inhabitants.
Over time, this tradition evolved. In medieval Europe, a practice called "souling" emerged. The poor went from house to house, singing prayers for the dead in exchange for food, often in the form of small cakes called "soul cakes." This custom transformed into an early form of "trick or treat," where children went from door to door, receiving sweets in exchange for singing or praying.
The arrival of modern sweets
It wasn't until the early 20th century in North America that candy began to play a central role in Halloween. Before that, children often received fruit, nuts, or even small toys as treats. However, with the rise of the sugar industry and the popularization of trick-or-treating after World War II, packaged, ready-to-eat candy became the norm.
Candy was quickly adopted as the preferred choice for Halloween due to its affordability, convenience, and ability to satisfy children's sweet tooth. Today, Halloween is one of the most lucrative periods for candy manufacturers, with millions of kilograms of treats sold each year.
The Masked Universe: The perfect complement for Halloween
Halloween wouldn't be complete without a scary or fun costume. To make this holiday even more special, a good mask can make all the difference. At L'Univers Masqué , we offer a range of high-quality masks , perfect for completing your Halloween outfit. Whether you want to embody a classic character like a vampire or a ghost, or something more original, our masks are designed to offer optimal comfort while being visually impressive.
Our masks are carefully crafted to ensure exceptional durability and realism. With a mask from L'Univers Masqué , you can be sure to make a splash when you go trick-or-treating or attend a costume party.
Conclusion
Trick-or-treating on Halloween is a tradition that has evolved over the centuries, from offerings to appease spirits to a sweet celebration that delights children. Today, this practice is central to the holiday and contributes to the excitement surrounding Halloween. To make your Halloween experience even more memorable, be sure to visit L'Univers Masqué and discover our collection of high-quality masks, perfect for completing your costume and making this evening a success.