I’d like to bring to attention, that I’m by no means trying to push my beliefs upon anyone. I aim to inform upon something I’m passionate about and maybe shine light on what are some practices that people in the community do (not everyone of course). Maybe you could find something that resonates within you. I know there are a lot of stereotypes that circulate, so please look into it yourself or feel free to ask. Enjoy!!!
As many witches there are, as many ways of celebrating the 31st of October / 1st of November there is.
Let me start of saying, that we don't call it “Halloween”, but Samhain, which would be translated as "End of summer/End of the warm months".
As a matter of fact, during Samhain, the two worlds our physical world and the other spiritual are the closest, so it is often advised not to go outside, as you can never be certain, who is dead and who is not.
It's a good idea to leave food at graves for wandering spirits, or even light candles and place them upon the front of your window, for your ancestors to find you easier (the thing with this is, that they will find you anyway, regardless of the candle, heh). Or simply just light a candle as a sign of paying your respects to them.
There is a very high chance, that your ancestors, who haven't been reborn yet, will visit you at night during this time.
What are rituals anyway, am I right?
So rituals... yes, some of us do them (but not the creepy Ouija board ones everyone seems to think we do). They’re actually relaxing and do not involve anything dark whatsoever.
*Fun fact* In a weird way it is a family gathering (lol).
We always RESPECT the dead and ask them for help in the future.
In coutries where people do trick-or-treating, these rituals are performed on days before or after 31st of October, so they don't get disturbed.
My sister and I aren't particularly fans of this time of the year, because we aren’t pleased with the "visitings".
Our great grandma always visits my older sister and not once has she awoke to find her standing right beside her bed or somewhere inside the room. My mom is fine with her stopovers, but geez, it took some time for us to get used to it. Lol.
I'm personally okay with calling the celebration Halloween (or All saint's day), as it's more common in my country. I do these things (rituals, candle lighting,...) depending on my mood and I also try not to sleep at night.
Whatever you and your family are celebrating, I wish you all a happy and peaceful holiday.
