A Teal Halloween owl

What Do Owls Have to Do with Halloween?

Halloween is on the way so I did a teal version of the night owl artwork. Halloween is that spooky time of the year when eerie tales, creepy costumes, and haunting decorations take centre stage. Among the myriad of symbols associated with Halloween, the majestic owl has etched its mark. But have you ever paused to wonder, why owls?
Before diving into the owl's association with Halloween, it's crucial to understand the origins of this celebration.

Ancient Celtic Celebrations

Long ago, the ancient Celts celebrated Samhain, marking the end of summer and the onset of winter. During this festival, they believed the boundary between the worlds of the living and the dead blurred, and spirits roamed the earth. Sound familiar? Well, that's because it's the precursor to our modern-day Halloween!

All Saints' Day and Its Evolution

As Christianity spread, the church declared November 1st as All Saints' Day. The evening before, once known for Samhain, began to be called "All-Hallows Eve," and over time, simply "Halloween."

The Nocturnal Nature of Owls

Is there anything eerier than an owl's hoot echoing in the dead of the night? This very nocturnal nature has led to the association of owls with the unknown or otherworldly. So, how did these magnificent birds find their way into Halloween folklore?

The Role of Owls in Halloween Folklore

During Samhain, the Celts believed that being visited by an owl meant that a supernatural message was being conveyed. Fast forward to medieval Europe, where owls were often seen as witches' companions. This association stems from the idea that witches could transform into owls and back.

Modern Representations of Owls during Halloween

Today, owls symbolise the mysterious, the unknown, and even the spooky. This makes them perfect for Halloween themes, be it in movies, books, or even party invitations.