This time of year, the barriers separating Heaven, Earth and Hell become permeable. The gates open up and Spirits are abroad. 

Halloween has its roots in the ancient, pre-Christian Celtic festival of Samhain, which was celebrated on the nights of October 31 and November 1st, marking the end of harvest and beginning of winter. The Celts, who lived 2,000 years ago in the area that is now Ireland, the United Kingdom and northern France, believed that the dead returned to earth on Samhain. The word "Halloween" comes from "All Hallows' Eve" and means "hallowed evening." Hundreds of years ago, people dressed up as saints or other costumes, wore masks and went door to door asking for treats, which is the origin of Halloween costumes and trick-or-treating. 

Today we Zoom parties, share feasts at a distance and honor those living and dead who we love. In Latin America and Mexico we celebrate Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, which is both a remembrance and celebration for our dearly departed. Families create ofrendas (altars) to remember those who've passed. Often decorated with bright yellow marigolds, photos of the departed and their favorite items (including food and drinks), the offerings are said to encourage visits from beyond. They're also a way families can celebrate together. Because of COVID-19, many traditional, in-person Día de los Muertos gatherings have moved online. But we can still celebrate the holiday.

Here are tasty ways to add cheer to the season’s typically dreary weather, and long dark nights. https://winghopfung.com/search?q=candy