This year trick-or-treating actually happened. There were safety protocols in place, and people were advised to mask and observe social distance, but for those who participated, it was largely the same custom that we had before the pandemic. In Oak Forest, trick-or-treating hours ran 2-7, reflecting the fact that Halloween fell on a Sunday.

Speaking of Halloween, where did it originate? It started with the Celtic festival of Samhain, when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts. Then trick or treating became a thing. Trick or treating used to be celebrated with people dressing up in costumes and asking for food or money, but now people usually give candy. Halloween used to be called Allhalloween, All Hallows Day, Saints Eve, or Hallowe’en.

Hopefully everyone enjoyed a safe and happy Halloween this year. As for me, I enjoyed it, but I’m already looking forward to Thanksgiving. . .