Pumpkins, costumes and treats!
Halloween is on 31 October. It is a big festival in countries like America, Canada, Ireland and Britain. Children dress up in costumes, carve pumpkins and go from house to house saying “Trick or treat!” to collect sweets.
More than 2,000 years ago, people in Ireland and nearby lands had a festival called Samhain (say “SOW-in”). It was held when the harvest was over and the cold winter began. Later, the evening before All Hallows’ Day was called All Hallows’ Eve. Say it fast: Halloween!
Long ago in Ireland, people carved faces into turnips to make lanterns. In America, they used pumpkins instead: bigger and easier to carve! These are called jack-o’-lanterns.
Not really! It is about dressing up and sharing. You can be an astronaut, an animal, or even a pumpkin!
Draw a happy, a silly and a surprised face.
Use old clothes and boxes. That’s reusing! (Page 17.)
In Mexico, the Day of the Dead on 1 and 2 November is a colorful time when families remember loved ones, with bright orange marigolds, the same flowers we use in garlands!