Hallow's Eve (aka Samhain) in the UK

[John Farrell]

I just wondered how Oct. 31st is treated in the UK--whether as a minor eve or whether similar (meaning over the top highly commercialized) traditions are as popular (trick or treat).

Wandering around the Oxfordshire countryside in the twilight strikes me as a great way to celebrate--whether or no there's trick or treat...

Best,

John F

[Colin Bushby]

Well up here in the North East, it's not such a big deal, just a few kids going around collecting money for ket.
We do not give away candy and so forth, it has always been money.
The kids used to knock on the door with a well crafted turnip head hollowed out with a candle and say "Penny for Halloween" and you would give them a bit copper.
Now they just knock on your door and say "trick or Treat"
and hold their hands out. Last night two came knocking and said "Trick or Treat" I said "Trick please" and they just looked at me as though I was stupid. They haven't got a clue, probably heard it in a movie.

Colin