The Holy Days Behind Halloween: A Catholic Guide to October

CWM
Oct 14
3 min read

October is often wrapped in pumpkins, costumes, and candy—but for Catholics, there’s a much deeper richness to this season. Behind the skeleton décor and spooky movies lies a beautiful thread of faith, tradition, and remembrance that often goes unnoticed.

Let’s peel back the commercial layers and rediscover what October really means for us as Catholics.

The Real History of Halloween: A Catholic Tradition

Believe it or not, Halloween didn’t start with horror films or haunted houses—it started with the Church.

The word Halloween comes from “All Hallows’ Eve,” which is the vigil (or the evening before) All Hallows’ Day—now known as All Saints’ Day on November 1. This feast celebrates all the saints in heaven, both known and unknown, and it was established to remind the faithful of their heavenly goal.

EARLY CHURCH ROOTS

As early as the 4th century, Christians began honoring martyrs and saints. By the 8th century, Pope Gregory III officially set November 1 as a feast day for all saints, and the night before became All Hallows’ Eve.

These three days—October 31 (All Hallows’ Eve), November 1 (All Saints’ Day), and November 2 (All Souls’ Day)—form a powerful trio known as Hallowtide. It’s a sacred time to remember the dead, pray for the souls in purgatory, and reflect on our own call to holiness.

What About Ghosts, Costumes, and Candy?

Many of today’s Halloween customs have ancient roots—but often with a Christian twist.

Dressing in costumes originally included saints, angels, or even devils—not to glorify evil, but to dramatize the battle between good and evil and celebrate Christ’s victory.
Trick-or-treating may have come from “souling”—a medieval tradition where children would go door to door offering prayers for the dead in exchange for “soul cakes.”
Jack-o’-lanterns were once used to represent souls in purgatory or to ward off evil spirits—but they also remind us that Christ is the light in the darkness.

Over time, these traditions became more playful and secular—but Catholics are invited to remember and reclaim their deeper meaning. Halloween doesn’t belong to the world. It began with us.

All Saints’ Day: Heaven’s Roll Call

On November 1, we celebrate All Saints’ Day—a beautiful feast honoring the holy men and women who have gone before us and now live in eternal glory with God.

It’s a reminder that sainthood is for everyone. You don’t have to be a bishop or martyr—just faithful. It’s the perfect time to introduce your kids (or yourself!) to new saints and ask for their intercession.

Try celebrating with:

A “Saint Parade” or costume day at school or church
A family meal honoring a favorite saint
Attending Mass (it’s a Holy Day of Obligation!)

All Souls’ Day: Honoring the Faithful Departed

Then comes All Souls’ Day on November 2—a day dedicated to praying for all who have died, especially those who may be in purgatory.

Catholics believe that our prayers can help souls on their journey to Heaven. Lighting candles, visiting graves, attending Mass, and offering rosaries are all meaningful ways to spiritually support the dead.

In cultures like Mexico, Día de los Muertos is a joyful, colorful way to remember loved ones—with altars, flowers, food, and photos. It’s not spooky—it’s sacred.

Living October the Catholic Way

So how can we celebrate this season with meaning?

Enjoy the fun, but don’t forget the faith
Learn about the saints, and let their lives inspire your family
Light a candle or set up a small altar to remember loved ones who have passed
Pray for the souls in purgatory, especially throughout November
Attend Mass on All Saints’ Day
Encourage saint-themed costumes or story nights
Talk about the real meaning of Halloween with kids (and adults!)

A Night of Light, Not Fear

Halloween isn’t about fear—it’s about faith. It’s the first step into a sacred season of remembrance and hope. From All Hallows’ Eve to All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, Catholics are invited to reflect on eternity, honor the communion of saints, and pray for those who have gone before us.

So yes, pass the candy—but don’t forget the candles. This October, let’s celebrate the Catholic way.