Carved pumpkins everywhere, cozy blankets and lights off during a scary movie, planning a group costume with friends; with Halloween around the corner, maroons are doing these and more things to prepare for a night of scares and fun. Halloween is celebrated by many at Roanoke College, although most haven’t stopped a second to think about the origin of the celebration.
Hallow’s Eve dates back to the ancient Celtic festival of “Samhain”, a pagan religious festival that marks the end of summer and the beginning of winter. The Celts believed that it marked the beginning of a new year. On October 31st, which is the day we now think of as Halloween, it was believed that the spirits of death came back to earth to cause trouble and damage the summer crops. During this day people would normally dress up with animal heads and burn crops and animals as sacrifices.
The holiday has evolved through the years to become the door-to-door asking-for-candy event that we love. So don’t worry, you don’t have to make any sacrifices on such short notice. Roanoke College doesn’t offer that type of celebration but there are plenty of fun events to join! For starters, on Saturday, October 26th join forces with friends and attempt to complete the escape room in the Ballroom; you will have to sign up at the info desk to be able to prove your abilities to solve puzzles under pressure. Or, if you like the mystery but not the time crunch be sure to check out the murder mystery party on Tuesday, October 29th in the Bank building starting at 4 pm.
Have a great Halloween Maroons, and don’t forget to prepare your costumes!
Andrea Flores
Staff Reporter
