Common Talk Weeklyshuang yu zhou kan
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Hot Word
November 5, 2003

Halloween 万圣节

Halloween originated as a celebration connected with evil spirits. Witches flying on broomsticks with black cats, ghosts, goblins(小精灵)and skeletons have all evolved as symbols of Halloween.

Since the 800's November 1st has been a religious holiday known as All Saints' Day(万圣节). Like some other American celebrations, its origins lie in both pre-Christian and Christian customs.

More and more adults celebrate Halloween. They dress up like historical or political figures and go to masquerade parties(化装舞会). On October 31st, dozens of children dress in costumes(节日服装)knock on their neighbors' doors and yell "Trick or Treat" when the door opens.

(For more details of Xiamen local Halloween holiday, please visit the following pages: A spooky Halloween and The Joy of Halloween.)