The terms referring to the yearly celebration on October 31st have distinct origins. One, with its roots in religious observance, literally means the evening before All Hallows’ Day, a Christian feast day dedicated to remembering the dead, including saints (hallows), martyrs, and all the faithful departed. The other represents a more secular, shortened, and modernized version of the same observance.
The evolution from a primarily religious vigil to a widely celebrated cultural event reflects significant historical shifts. The religious observance focused on prayer and remembrance. Over time, folk customs and traditions blended with the religious aspects, ultimately leading to the transformation. This transition involved elements of folklore, harvest celebrations, and practices aimed at warding off evil spirits, creating a unique blend of solemn reflection and festive activity.