Ready to Get Spooked?
It’s almost Halloween, and if there’s one thing we know will get you in the spooky spirit—it’s a few Halloween facts. Why do we call it a jack-o-lantern and what the heck is “souling”? Take a look. These facts are sure to be a treat.
8 Spooky Halloween Facts You Need to Know
- The first Jack O’Lanterns were actually made from turnips.
- Halloween is the second highest grossing commercial holiday after Christmas.
- The Guinness World Record for Heaviest Pumpkin is held by Mathias Willemijns from Belgium and his 2,624.6 pound pumpkin.
- According to Irish legend, Jack O’Lanterns are named after a stingy man named Jack who, because he tricked the devil several times, was forbidden entrance into both heaven and hell. He was condemned to wander the Earth, waving his lantern to lead people away from their paths.
- The original creator of Milk Duds wanted to make the candies into perfect circles. When that proved impossible, he called them "duds." He added the word "milk" to refer to the large amount of milk used to make the candy.
- In Bellville, Missouri, it is illegal to ask for candy if you are over the age of 13.
- Comedian John Evans once quipped: “What do you get if you divide the circumference of a jack-o’-lantern by its diameter? Pumpkin π.”
- “Souling” is a medieval Christian precursor to modern-day trick-or-treating. On Hallowmas (November 1), the poor would go door-to-door offering prayers for the dead in exchange for soul cakes.
What’s Your Favorite Halloween Treat?
When you’re a kid, it’s all about the candy. But here’s a secret only us adults know—we never stop loving treats. We just like it in a different form. Which of these Halloween treats catches your eye?
Follow and tag us in a post on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and Youtube. Let's start a conversation!