Discover how the ancient celebration of Samhain grew into the sweetly enchanted night we now call Halloween.
As October deepens and twilight lingers a little longer, Wickwood Cottage hums with an energy all its own. Lanterns glow, the scent of something sweet dances on the air and the garden seems to whisper secrets from long ago.
Before Halloween became a night of costumes, pumpkins and treats, it was known as Samhain, a time of endings and beginnings, when the old year faded and the new one waited just beyond the dark. The Celts believed that on this night, the veil between worlds grew thin, allowing loved ones and friendly spirits to wander close once more.
Fires were lit to warm and guide them, candles flickered in windows and small offerings, often fruits, bread and honey were left out as tokens of kindness. It was a celebration of light in the shadow, of memory and of connection between all living things.
Over centuries, Samhain’s traditions intertwined with others — All Hallows’ Eve, harvest festivals and the playful customs we now call Halloween. The ancient bonfires became glowing pumpkins, the offerings turned into sweets and the laughter of children replaced the chants of the old storytellers. Yet at its heart, the same magick remains.
Here at Wickwood Cottage, we like to think that on these enchanted October nights, the garden remembers. The air hums with soft sweetness, a little echo of those ancient gifts and every flicker of candlelight carries a whisper from the past.
So, whether you’re lighting a wax melt, carving a pumpkin, or simply enjoying the hush of an autumn evening, pause for a moment…
You might just feel the old magick too.
Discover the scents that inspired this story — our Trick or Treat collection brings sweetness and a little Halloween magick to your home.
https://wickwoodcottage.co.uk/products/limited-edition-wax-melts-trick-or-treat
Until next time…