Why are costumes worn on Hallowe’en or All Hallows’ Eve?

(Photo of costume party in 1890)

 

Rev. Dr. Eddie J. Smith offers a religious perspective in his book Halloween, Hallowed Be Thy Name.

He suggests that by dressing up as creatures “who at one time caused us to fear and tremble,” people are able to poke fun at Satan “whose kingdom has been plundered by the Savior.”