All Saints' Day

What Is All Saints' Day?

November 1st is "All Saints' Day" in the Catholic Church, a long-observed Christian feast day honoring all saints and martyrs.

A Solemn Holiday That Follows Halloween

All Saints' Day is positioned as a day to honor not just well-known saints by name, but all saints collectively.

• Origin: long observed in Christianity as a feast day commemorating martyrs and saints
• Its connection to Halloween: "Halloween," celebrated on October 31st, is said to derive from "All Hallows' Eve," the vigil before All Saints' Day
• Regional customs: observed as a public holiday in many Catholic countries, marked with church masses and visits to graves

The Original Meaning Hidden Behind Halloween's Name

The word "Halloween" is said to be a contraction of "All Hallows' Eve" -- the night before All Saints' Day. Behind the costumes and candy that Halloween is known for lies this solemn religious observance.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Look into the connection between Halloween and All Saints' Day
• Learn about religious observances held around this time of year worldwide
• Talk with someone close to you about the origins of these traditions
• Spend a quiet day reflecting after Halloween's lively festivities

A Quiet Day of Prayer Follows a Lively Eve

The day after Halloween's costumed excitement fades, All Saints' Day is observed around the world as a day of quiet prayer. November 1st is a day to reflect on the original meaning behind the festivities.