Samaín and Halloween traditions in Galicia and Wiesbaden

The Celtic festival of Samaín, which serves as the precursor to modern Halloween, originated from the Gaelic term for the ‘end of summer.’ Historically, Celtic peoples marked the transition from the light half of the year to the dark half during this time. Traditional rituals included the use of masks and skins to mislead spirits, apple games, and the lighting of turnips to guide the deceased. In Galicia, the legend of the Santa Compaña describes a silent procession of the dead carrying long candles, a sight that locals traditionally avoided to escape a curse.

In Wiesbaden, Germany, various community events are scheduled to observe Halloween. Activities include children's workshops at LILI, family festivals at Biberbau featuring face painting and campfires, and theatrical performances at the Galli Theater. The Wiesbaden City Museum is hosting a ‘Trick or Treat’ event involving a search for cursed objects, while local venues like Kreativfabrik and Schlachthof are hosting themed parties and music events.