Spooky nights, H'ween weather, carving tips

Daily Newsletter for Tuesday, October 25, 2016

Dear Readers,

Halloween is one of our most popular holidays, but what's the real story behind the tricks and treats? 

Halloween is All-hallow's eve, the night before All Saint's Day (also called All-hallows or All-hallowmas) on November 1, not be confused with All Souls' Day, which is observed on November 2, and is dedicated to those who have died.

Reaching further back, Halloween has traditions in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain (pronounced sow-in), when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off roaming ghosts.

Learn more in this week's free Almanac Companion—plus, check your Halloween forecast!

Sincerely, your Almanac editors

Some merry, friendly, country-folks,
Together did convene,
To burn their nits, and pou their stocks,
And haud their Halloween.
–Robert Burns (1759–96)
Tuesday, October 25, 2016
299th day of the year


Anne Tyler (author) was born on this day in 1941.
Nigel Davenport (actor) died on this day in 2013.
 

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Halloween Dates and History

Halloween 2018
Halloween always falls on the 31st of October. But what day of the week? (We always hope for a weekend.) See our Halloween Calendar for 2018, 2019, and 2020—plus, enjoy a brief history of Halloween, Halloween recipes, crafts, folklore, and more!
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Moon and Back Chalk-Style Sign

Love you to the Moon and back! Stands on its own or hangs from wall.
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$21.97
 
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How to Carve Pumpkins

Pumpkin Carving Tips and Tricks
Whether this is your first attempt at carving a pumpkin or your hundredth, there are many imaginative ways to create something special.
  WATCH VIDEO  
 
Pumpkin Melody Table Runner

Welcome family and friends to your table with the glorious colors and abundant beauty of autumn. Matching napkins and placements also available.
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$31.95-$49.95
 
A Maytime Halloween?

What Is So Spooky About Halloween Weather?
Why does Halloween fit so well with October? It’s just interesting to think about how much weather and daylight affect the whole nature of a celebration.
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The 2017 Old Farmer's Almanac Everyday Calendar

Celebrate by giving a plant that has heart-shaped leaves: Dutchman’s pipe, European wild ginger, ‘Artic Beauty’ hardy kiwi, morning glory, or violet.
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$12.99
 
Your Halloween Weather

7-Day Weather Forecast
Short-term 7-day forecast for thousands of locations in the U.S. and Canada.
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The 2017 Weather Watcher’s Calendar | Save 50%

For those who like to keep an eye on the sky! Features dramatic photography, weather proverbs, historical weather events, trivia, and more.
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$4.99
 
Spooky Nights!

Spooky Sky: We Dare You to Go Out!
The Sun is setting earlier and earlier: It’s really dark. The leaves are dropping quickly now, so barren branches now tremble in the wind. And yes, even that wind is generally stronger during the cold months.
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Be The Black Sheep Metal Sign

Encourage people that share your fun side! Made in the USA like a rust-proof street sign to hang indoors or outside.
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$26.95