Jason Monastra

My life and thoughts out on the web

 Halloween 2007 in the Plantation.  Kids, candy, parents and a whole lot of walking……who ever said this was suppossed to be for the kids only?  I think we need an adult celebration of the holiday.

The holiday is celebrated all over the world with a focus on Ireland, the US, UK, Canada, PR and in certain parts of New Zealand and Australia.  I am certain that there is a part in most of those cultures that represent the focus on adults as well.  Lets see what we can dig up.

 On Halloween night in present-day Ireland, adults and children dress up as creatures from the underworld (e.g., ghosts, ghouls, zombies, witches and goblins), light bonfires (which are now illegal for safety reasons), and enjoy spectacular fireworks displays, despite the fact that such displays are usually illegal also.

We will scratch Scotland as the present day focus is on kids kids and more kids.  Lots of trick/treating and such.  In Scotland, it is referred as guising.

Now in the UK, Halloween festivities include fireworks, telling stories, and playing children’s games. Apple tarts might be baked with a coin hidden inside, and nuts of all types are traditional Halloween fare. Bolder children may play a game called “thunder and lightning”, which involves loudly knocking on a neighbor’s door, then running away (like lightning). This game is known as “knocky nine doors” in the north east of England, “knock-door-run”, “knock-and-run”, “knock-knock-zoom-zoom”, “ding-dong-ditch”, or “postman’s knock” in parts of the country.  Tradition has been changing, as the majority of today’s children will arrive at a door and intone “trick-or-treat” in order to receive money and sweets.

 I think they have the idea correct, MONEY….see that is an adult area we need to do.  Parents go around to the wealther neighborhoods dressed in garb, knocking on doors and asking for Treats.  We need a holiday like that in the states.

Wow…I am still reading and it appears that Mexico, the Caribbean, Malta, Isle of Man, China, Japan, Germany all have some connection with the holiday.  Whether from a cultural tradition or a linkage to American Pop culture, the holiday has spread throughout the world mainly with a child focus.  Possibly my dreams of a holiday with knocking on doors receiving beer/wine/money are too far gone for the culture of today……BOO HOO.

Hope everyone had a great time tonight and BE SAFE!!