Halloween… Will it ever become of Ghanaian culture? Over the years Diasporians and Afro-American descendants traced their roots back to the African soil. West Africa and mostly to Ghana.
The year of return (2019) sparked the interest of many causing tens of thousands if not hundreds to relocated to Ghana and Africa at large. Just like many other settlers these immigrants have their own culture and traditions.
Halloween is a holiday celebrated each year on October 31, and Halloween 2022 will occur on Monday, October 31. The tradition originated with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts. In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as a time to honor all saints. Soon, All Saints Day incorporated some of the traditions of Samhain. The evening before was known as All Hallows Eve, and later Halloween. Over time, Halloween evolved into a day of activities like trick-or-treating, carving jack-o-lanterns, festive gatherings, donning costumes and eating treats. ( history.com)
Halloween is meant to be scary, spooky, fun and adrenaline rushing which goes contrary to African beliefs and superstitons. Anything scary or creepy is seen as demonic and therefore must not be entertained. This includes watching horror or thriller movies and true crime documentaries.
The younger generations are welcoming of these new traditions and in the past years a couple of Halloween parties and events have been organised in Ghana. As everyone liked the idea of dressing like a favourite movie character or fictional figure. The older generations on the other hand still have a hard time accepting Halloween.
So the true question is with Afro-Americans and Diasporians moving back home. Will they be fully embraced or they will have to do away with these “demonic” traditions?
Should Halloween be made official in Ghana?
