Happy Halloween!

What would Halloween be without costumes?  The National Retail Foundation estimates that Americans will spend 3.3 billion dollars on costumes this Halloween. Where did this love for costumes come from that has fueled a multi-billion dollar industry?

Historians consider the Celtic Pagan festival of Samhain which dates back over 2,000 years ago as the precursor to Halloween. During this festival, people “would wear disguises -- such as animal skins and heads” to trick the spirits into thinking they were one of them. 

There is record from the 16th century of “All Hallows’ Eve” including the practice of ‘guising’.  This included children dressing up and pretending to be spirits, they would perform tricks or songs and receive a gift in return.

With the arrival of Irish and Scottish immigrants into the U.S. in the 18th century, Halloween customs quickly spread throughout the country. By the 1930s, companies like Ben Cooper, Inc. were mass producing costumes, even producing Disney character costumes like Snow White & Mickey Mouse.

Even the law community closely follows costume trends as evidenced by the Above the Law’s Legally Themed Halloween Costume contest. 

Today, the top 10 most popular costumes are filled with a variety of new and old, so whether you go for a premade costume or make your own have a Happy Halloween…oh, and don’t forget your pet!