11 November, 2008

31 Oct -- All Hallows Eve (Halloween)

All Hallows Eve is the night before All Saints Day (November 1) and All Souls Day (November 2). For much of Europe this is a religious holiday.

In the last 5 or 6 years, the American traditions of Halloween and trick or treating have been finding their way into Swiss cities. This has caused a lot of discussion and many feel it disrespects the sacredness of these days.

For a couple of weeks prior to All Saints' Day, the graves are made beautiful in honor of the dead. Many in the town plant the traditional chrysanthemums. I wasn't able to experience any of the celebration, but I know there were tall witches around town and the schools had a special field trip.

We didn't get dressed up or anything, so here's some old Halloween pictures of me for fun:

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