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By Tami Jo Nix

As promised here is part two of my report on Halloween. The way I understand it, the ancient Celts who lived on the land that is now known as Ireland and Britain celebrated their new year on Nov. 1.

On Oct. 31, a festival was held as people celebrated the harvest and prepared for the long cold winter. The three-day period from Oct. 31 to Nov. 2 was referred to collectively as Hallowmas.

Bonfires were part of the harvest festival tradition as small quantities of crops and animals were burned in sacrificial offering. It is said that the Celtic population dressed in costumes to disguise their identities so the ghosts of their enemies wouldn't recognize them.

They also believed that the spirits of those who died in the previous year also roamed their old haunts one last time on All Hallows Eve before moving on to their great reward. Many people would leave food out for the spirits of their lost loved ones.

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Tami Jo Nix Tami Jo Nix is a senior staff writer, photographer and community / features writer for the Madera Tribune. You can contact Tami Jo at 674.8134 ext. 231 or e-mail at tamijo (at) maderatribune.net Tami Jo also handles community calendar items and wedding announcements. The Madera Tribune online subscription To subscribe or log on, CLICK HERE. For more information first, CLICK HERE.