Whether you love it or hate it, more people are celebrating Halloween in Australia. While you might love the idea of dressing up in scary costumes and eating pumpkin flavoured everything, do you know the history behind the holiday? We’ve got a brief rundown, as well as easy costume and decorating ideas for a spooky Halloween that won’t cost the earth or require a small loan.
Overview:
When is Halloween?
Just like in other countries, Halloween is celebrated on the 31st of October each year. Sadly, since Halloween isn’t an “official” holiday, it’s not a public holiday in Australia. But that doesn’t stop many Aussie Halloween enthusiasts from celebrating!
When did Halloween start in Australia?
Halloween started gaining traction in Australia in the late 1990s and early 2000s, influenced by American pop culture, movies, and television. Prior to this, Halloween was not a widely recognized or celebrated event in Australia.
The history of Halloween explained
Halloween has its origins in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, celebrated in what is now Ireland, the United Kingdom, and northern France. The Celts believed that on the night before November 1st, the boundary between the living and the dead blurred, and ghosts could return to earth. To ward off spirits, people lit bonfires and wore costumes.
In the 8th century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1st as All Saints’ Day (also known as All Hallows’ Day), and the night before became known as All Hallows’ Eve, later shortened to “Halloween.” All Saints’ Day was a time to honour saints and martyrs, and it was thought to absorb some of the traditions of Samhain.
Why Trick or Treat?
In mediaeval Europe, particularly in England, there was a custom known as “souling,” which took place on All Souls’ Day (November 2). The poor would go from door to door, offering prayers for the dead in exchange for food, often soul cakes. In return for the cakes, they would promise to pray for the souls of the deceased. This practice is one of the key origins of trick-or-treating.
Today, trick-or-treating is a fun, family-friendly Halloween tradition. Children dress in costumes and go from house to house, saying “trick or treat” and expecting candy or small treats. It has become a key part of the modern Halloween celebration, especially in countries like the United States, Canada, and increasingly in other places like Australia and the U.K.
How to celebrate Halloween in Australia
Whilst trick or treating is popular in America, we haven’t fully embraced it in Australia. Most people decide to host or attend a dress-up party. As well as that, Australia is embracing the Halloween tradition of decorating their home and carving pumpkins. These are the best from the Swoosh vault.
Last minute Halloween costume ideas
One of the best things about Halloween is dressing up in the perfect costume. But sometimes life is just too busy and there isn’t time for an elaborate disguise. Never fear! Swoosh is here. We’ve got some last minute Halloween costume ideas that will ensure you’re on theme and on time.
1. Mime
Short on time? Then you need a mime! Perhaps one of the easiest costumes you can whip up in a hurry, all you need is some face paint and a striped shirt. You can even skip the extras like a hat, gloves, and suspenders.
2. Get your twin on
This one is so easy. Just team up with another time-poor friend and wear matching outfits with matching hairstyles. Then you can go as twins! Bonus points if one of you is the evil twin.
3. Classic cat
A cat costume is a timeless, easy option for both kids and adults. All you need is a black marker or eyeliner to draw on some whiskers and a little nose. If you don’t already have cat ears, you can quickly make a pair using paper and a spare headband. Simple, cheap, and always a crowd-pleaser!
4. Toilet paper mummy
Need a costume that you can make using only the things you already have on hand? Toilet paper mummy is your answer!
5. 80’s throwback
Few costume ideas out there are easier than dressing as a 1980s flashback. Some of the fashion from the 80s has even made a comeback and can be found in our wardrobes already. Want to get the 80s look for your Halloween party? Then just aim for things like:
- Jean jackets
- High top Chuck Taylors
- Crimped hair with scrunchies, outrageous bows, and high ponytails
- Red lips and red nail polish
- Crop tops with high-waisted three quarter pants or jeans
- Wayfarer style sunglasses
- Neon colours
- Workout gear with sweatbands and ankle warmers
- Bangles
- Funky colours tights with mini skirts
Budget decorating ideas for Halloween
Australians have really embraced Halloween decorations in recent years! Come October, the shops are packed with plastic pumpkins, spooky ornaments, and fake cobwebs. If you’d prefer to save money, there are plenty of cheap ideas for DIY Halloween decorations that can help you create a ghoulish atmosphere without using your credit card.
1. Carve a pumpkin
More and more Aussies are choosing to carve pumpkins this Halloween. As well as being fun it’s a great way to support Australian farmers while also having fun with your family. Get inspired and start carving!
2. Spooky paper garlands
This one is as easy as paper, scissors and sticky tape. You can create any Halloween design you like using just paper and string you have around the house. It’s also a fun craft to do with your kids and one of the many budget ideas for your Halloween party.
3. Cobwebs
Fake cobwebs are a Halloween classic. You can either buy some from the cheap shop or even make your own. Try fluffing out some cotton wool to make cobwebs or even make some out of yarn!
Thinking about throwing an epic Halloween bash but low on cash?
Halloween can get expensive fast, but Swoosh Finance is here to help you manage life’s spooky surprises. With our fast, 100% online small loans and no hidden fees, applying is simple and stress-free. Apply online today!
