From Celtic Legend to the Roads of America.
In a time long ago, in the magical British Isles, there was a special night when bonfires lit up the sky, pranks animated the streets, and the poor went from house to house with lanterns made of turnips carved like skulls. These“Jack O’Lanterns” derive their name from an Irish legend, protagonist Jack.
From these Celtic roots comes the name Halloween, derived from“All Hallows Evening,” the night of All Saints. This holiday was especially beloved in Scotland and Ireland, where the tradition was alive.
The Great Famine, caused by a fungus that devastated potato crops, led to the deaths of one million Irish people. Hunger drove many to seek refuge in the U.S., where Halloween retained its essence but lost its religious character. The holiday turned into an occasion for pranks and treats, spreading among immigrants, including Italians
So, no, Halloween did not originate in America; it is anancient Celtic festival that crossed the ocean thanks to Irish emigrants, bringing with it a magic that has captured the hearts of all Americans. The legend of Jack O’Lantern and the pumpkin as his official symbol are only a small part of this fascinating story.
“Unleash Your Creativity with Togoloco: 5 Ways to Celebrate Halloween!”
Animated tour for children at Rivalta Castle (PC)
A mystery in Rivalta Castle! Guided tour in the morning, free lunch, and the “Halloween Mystery in the Castle” tour in the afternoon.
- Where: Rivalta Castle
- When: November 1, 2023
- Cost: Full 25 €, Reduced 15 € (children 3 and under), 5 € for children 2 to 3 years old.
- Info and Reservations: Tel. +39 339 2987892, Mail: info@castellodirivalta.it
At the Halloween Magic School in Rocchetta Mattei (BO): An Enchanted Adventure!
Rocchetta Mattei is transformed into the famous School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, with a fascinating interactive tour. You’ll walk through the Great Hall, participate in lectures by professors, challenge wizards to duels, face villains and more as youexperience wizardry at this pumpkin festival.
The ticket includes admission, the interactive tour, a magic goodbye drink and a pin.
- Where: Rocchetta Mattei
- When: Oct. 31
- Cost: €15 for adults (ages 11 and up), €12 for children (ages 3 to 10), Free for children under 2.
Onferno Caves (RN): Halloween among legends, ghosts and nocturnal animals
You will explore spooky tales of Romagna as you walk through the shadows of twilight. You will meet nocturnal inhabitants, such as bats and owls, and participate in a Halloween workshop in the woods. After a snack, you will explore Onferno Caves with a cave guide to discover the secrets of bats.
When: Tuesday, October 31
Cost: 18€ adult fee, 15€ child fee (up to 12 years old)
INFO AND RESERVATIONS:
CRISTINA – 366 5035194 WhatsApp
Discover the World of Witches at the Castle of Bianello (RE)!
Witch IDENTIKIT: Sunday, October 29, 2023 from 4 p.m.
Inspect a real witch and discover her secret characteristics! What do witches eat? How to defend yourself against them?
In this engaging Dahl-inspired narrative, boys and girls will learn everything they need to escape the clutches of a witch. You never know!
Participation from 8 Euro – Reservation required
Reservations: 3392313872 📧 Email: gruppostoricoilmelograno@gmail.com
Halloween among haunted greenhouses and mazes!
Within Alfonsine’s Ephemeral Labyrinth lurks a frightening darkness. Will you be brave enough to challenge fate? Experience the most terrifying Halloween ever on October 28 and 31!
Food stand and bar from 6:30 pm. As soon as darkness falls, the fear begins!
Admission 15 Euro (entertainment only)
Not recommended for children under 12 years of age.
In this night of monsters and vampires
Someone is looking for screams and sighs,
seeks them everywhere, carried by the wind,
Is the spiteful ghost Spavento.
Tour the homes of all children
In search of tasty treats.
If he can’t find any, he plays tricks,
Taking off socks and moving the beds around a bit.
But I assure you, he is only a prankster,
Is not bad, but seeks attention.
If you leave a treat on your bedside table.
He will be happy — and he will want to give you a kiss.
