As the end of October approaches, we find ourselves preparing for one of the most anticipated events of the year—Halloween. Costumes, candy, and decorations take center stage, but have you ever wondered how this spooky tradition started? Halloween’s roots stretch back over 2,000 years to the ancient Celtic festival known as Samhain (pronounced “sow-in”), which marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. The Celts believed that on the night of October 31st, the boundary between the living and the dead became blurred, and spirits roamed the earth (History.com). To be protected against these spirits, people lit bonfires and wore costumes to disguise themselves from any wandering ghosts.
When Christianity spread throughout Europe, Samhain evolved into All Saints’ Day, or All Hallows’ Day, celebrated on November 1st. The evening before became known as All Hallows’ Eve, which eventually became the word we know today—Halloween (Britannica). The tradition of dressing up and carving pumpkins (originally turnips) was brought to the United States by Irish and Scottish immigrants in the 19th century. Over time, Halloween transformed into the family-friendly holiday we recognize, complete with trick-or-treating, haunted houses, and festive decorations.
Trick-or-treating, now one of the most exciting parts of Halloween, didn’t start until the 1920s in America. Before that, Halloween was mostly a time for pranks and mischief (Time). As communities wanted to shift focus away from destructive behaviors, they encouraged more organized, family-friendly activities like going door-to-door for treats. By the 1950s, trick-or-treating was widespread in the U.S., and candy companies quickly realized the potential to profit. Today, it’s estimated that Americans spend over $2 billion on Halloween candy every year!
While the history of Halloween may be rich, modern celebrations often center around one big question: where can we find the best houses for trick-or-treating? Yorba Linda features many family-friendly neighborhoods, making it a great place to celebrate Halloween. Some local spots are worth checking out, whether you’re hunting for the most candy or want to see incredible decorations.
East Lake Village is a Halloween hot spot for families. Known for its community involvement, this neighborhood comes alive with impressive decorations and friendly neighbors who love to hand out treats. Some homes even set up mini haunted houses on their front lawns, making it a great place to take younger trick-or-treaters. Gianna Hattar (10), a current YLHS student, believes “Eastlake is really fun and lively during Halloween.” Kerrigan Ranch is also another must-visit. Many homes go all out, with life-size skeletons, spooky lighting, and detailed setups that rival professional haunted houses. The decorations alone make this neighborhood a fun stop, even if not every house is handing out candy.
Vista Del Verde is another favorite trick-or-treating destination in Yorba Linda. The neighborhood is known for its community spirit, and many residents participate in Halloween festivities with creative costumes and generous candy handouts. The streets tend to get crowded early, so it’s best to start before the sun goes down. For a quieter but equally festive experience, Bryant Ranch offers a less crowded trick-or-treating route with plenty of Halloween spirit. This area is great for those who might not want to walk long distances but still want to enjoy the decorations and treats.
Whether you’re a fan of the rich history behind Halloween or just excited to dress up and collect candy, Yorba Linda has plenty to offer. The city provides the perfect backdrop for Halloween night, from its decorated neighborhoods to its friendly vibe. So grab your costume, bring your candy bag, and explore these festive spots for a night of spooky fun!
