There seems to be a Halloween spirit in a number of western cultures. The Mexicans celebrate the "Day of the Dead".

In my family we have the Celtic tradition of Samhain (Pronounced Sowain). It is one of the influences from which our modern Halloween was derived. In pre-Christian days it was a harvest festival signifying the end of the summer growing season and the beginning of winter. It was believed that on the date of Samhain the portal between this world and the next was open, and that the spirits of the dead walked among them. They left food offerings to appease the spirits, and disguised themselves to avoid the vengeance of the spirits. This eventually evolved into trick or treat and Halloween costumes. Although I have also heard that there is a Roman influence on the holiday also. 

 

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