Halloween has been celebrated in the U.S. since the 1840s.

According to one theory, the custom of trick or treating comes from a ninth-century European custom called “souling.” On October 31, All Souls Day, early Christians would walk from village to village begging for “soul cakes,” made out of square pieces of bread with currants.

According to Hallmark, 26 million Halloween cards will be exchanged this year.

65% of Americans will decorate their homes for Halloween this year, making it the second most decorated holiday. Christmas is first.

The Irish, fleeing the potato famine, brought Halloween costumes with them to the U.S.

The above is information which Mr. Smarty Pants read in a book, a magazine, or the newspaper; heard on the radio; saw on television; or overheard at a party. Got any facts? Leave a message for Mr. Smarty Pants, at 454-5766, ext. 226 for possible inclusion in the column. E-mail: mrpants@auschron.com

This article appears in October 31 • 1997 and October 31 • 1997 (Cover).

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