Every American knows that Halloween, which used to be called All Hallows’ Eve, is on October 31. Not everyone knows, however, that two Catholic holidays, All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, take place on November 1 and 2, respectively. If you were to travel to Eastern Europe during these days, you’d find that you’d be in the midst of a religious observance. Schools and public buildings will be closed during this time. Here are some of the activities that you might expect to witness in some of the Eastern European countries during All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days:
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Candles at Cemeteries On November 1, many families travel to visit the graves of their dearly departed. They often leave candles and flowers at the gravesites. This tradition started long ago, when the candles were left in order to help their loved ones find everlasting light and life. During those times, people would enjoy a meal at the gravesite and then leave food for their deceased relatives, but for the most part, that isn’t done anymore. The candles and flowers are still left, however, and they glow at least overnight and into November 2, if not for days afterwards.
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Doors, Windows and Mirrors In some areas, and particularly in Poland, the people follow the tradition of leaving the doors and windows open in the house so that any souls can depart. Mirrors are covered or turned toward the wall, and in some homes, clocks are stopped. This is an old tradition that would prevent the spirit of the deceased from becoming trapped in the house, and it’s often done after a death.
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Halloween Celebrations In some countries, Western-style celebrations of Halloween have taken hold and extend to All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. In Romania, for example, there is an annual Halloween tour featuring Dracula. Younger Croatians now participate in trick-or-treating (though many of the older generations are not receptive to this) and have horror movie nights and Halloween parties. Hungary is also beginning to see some new traditions inspired by the American holiday of Halloween.
In other countries, particularly Latin American countries and Spain, All Souls’ Day is celebrated as the Day of the Dead. Day of the Dead is observed in Mexico
In the United States, it might be observed by Catholics, but neither All Souls’ Day nor All Saints’ Day are considered major holidays. If you find yourself in Eastern Europe during the first two days of November, be sure to take a close look at how the deceased are commemorated and remembered on these days.
