Issue Date: 10/26/09
A modern twist on tradition
By Rebecca Levin
|
In lands such as Mexico, Latin America and Spain, a three-day celebration commemorating the dead begins on Oct. 31. The souls of dead family members are believed to come back to earth on this day to see their living family. Traditions such as the burning of candles and incense and the creation of an altar honoring the family member are also very common.
These are only a few of the traditions for a festival that has transcended both geography and time. However, the traditions for all holidays change with the times and Halloween is no exception. As the holiday moved from continent to continent, the idea changed until it became the trick-or-treating, bobbing for apples, creepy costume day we all know and love. But, what traditions do San Diegans have for this night of haunts?
The list of annual Halloween events in San Diego County is enormous. However, one event doesn't seem to make the list, but definitely deserves to be on it. For five years, Michele Marr of Oceanside has created an extremely elaborate set up for trick-or-treaters who come to her family's door.
"I've always like the mazes at Knott's Berry Farm, so we try to do a mini-version at the house," Marr said. But one may ask, why go through so much work? "It's just a fun time of year…(and) it's something for the kids to enjoy" Marr said. The house ends up a hot spot for trick-or-treaters each year.
Another avid Halloween lover is trick-or-treater and Palomar College student Maggie Velasquez. "When I was in Kindergarten … we (had) open classrooms and everybody used to go trick-or-treating," Velasquez said.
Though in recent years she has gone mostly to watch over her brothers, the excitement of dressing up and getting candy has always been present and was what began her fascination. "My friends used to talk about it all the time," Velasquez said. "It got me interested."
Of course, there a variety of ways to celebrate the fright night.
"I usually go out … to the desert," Shane Kitchens (also a Palomar Student) said, "If I don't do that, I usually stay up (with my friends) and have a party."
Kitchens has been keeping this tradition alive for seven years, along with his work friends. "I just kind of joined them, and we just continued it from there on out," Kitchens said.
When it comes to creepy holiday traditions, the possibilities are almost endless; from elaborate Halloween set-ups in your own front yard to trick-or-treating with family and friends to having creepily themed costume parties with friends. San Diegans truly do love Halloween.
Be the first to comment on this story