Dark to Light Edition 🎃💀🪔
Cosy up with this special edition where Halloween & DÃa de los Muertos meet Diwali...
As autumn brings different seasonal festivities for many around the world, I invite you to learn about the heritage and stories behind Halloween (originally ‘Samhain’/’Sauin’ in Gaelic and ‘Nos Calan Gaeaf’ in Welsh), DÃa de los Muertos (day of the dead), and Diwali. These annual traditions are about much more than candy and lights, they are steeped in history, symbolism, and cultural expressions, each uniquely honouring ancestors and marking the cycle of life.
Explore more through this collection of spooktacular podcasts (some may have video components for those who prefer visual media) that uncover the true origins, customs, and meanings of these cultural celebrations.
Happy [insert your cultural celebration]!
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Unobscured – Season 3: The Salem Witch Trials
Host Aaron Mahnke dives into the Salem Witch Trials, exploring the historical context that helped shape Halloween’s association with the supernatural. Listen: On Spotify
History Extra – Halloween Traditions: Everything You Wanted to Know
This episode from BackStory explores the origins and evolution of Halloween traditions, from ancient Celtic customs to modern American celebrations. It offers insights into how Halloween became a cultural phenomenon, blending history with fascinating anecdotes about its traditions. Listen: On Apple Podcasts
BBC Radio 4 Documentary - The Welsh Version of Halloween: Delve into the vibrant traditions of the lesser-known ‘Nos Calan Gaeaf’. Discover what Halloween means to Wales with Carys Eleri, at St Fagans Museum of History - lifting the veil between this world and next. Listen: On BBC Sounds
The Salem Witch Trials Podcast – Deep Dive into Salem's Dark History
This podcast explores the infamous Salem Witch Trials, delving into the historical context, key figures, and cultural implications of this tragic event in American history. Each episode examines various aspects of the trials, providing insights into the hysteria that gripped Salem and its lasting impact on society. Listen: On Spotify
You're Dead to Me: Medieval Ghost Stories
In this episode of the You're Dead to Me podcast, host Greg Jenner is joined by historians and comedians to explore the spooky world of medieval ghost stories. They discuss the cultural significance of these tales, their origins, and how they reflect the beliefs and fears of medieval society. Listen: On BBC Sounds
Myth Podcast – Episode 47: Urban Legends: Dark
In this episode, the hosts explore stories of the present and modern versions of folklore. Equally strange and scary, these urban legends intersect with darker themes and eerie tales. Discover the origins, cultural significance, and psychological impact of such legends, and examine how they reflect our fears and curiosities. Listen: Myth Podcast Episode 47
Stuff You Missed in History Class: The Real Story Behind Halloween
In this episode, hosts Holly Frey and Tracy V. Wilson delve into the history of Halloween, exploring its origins from ancient Celtic festivals to its evolution into the modern celebration we know today. Listen: On Apple Podcasts
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Newsy Pooloozi – Autumn Festivals: This episode covers a variety of autumn festivals, including DÃa de los Muertos, giving a lively overview of its traditions and significance for young listeners.
Listen: On Sound Carrot
The Evolution Of DÃa De Los Muertos - 1A: This episode explores the history and evolution of DÃa de los Muertos in the U.S., highlighting its roots in indigenous traditions and its transformation during the Chicano Movement of the 1960s and '70s. Listen: On Podcast Addict
It’s Always Halloween: In this episode, the hosts delve into the traditions, symbols, and cultural significance of DÃa de los Muertos, contrasting it with Halloween and discussing its unique rituals and history. Listen: On Apple Podcasts
Dia de los Muertos: “Moving from Grief to Gratitude" - This episode dives into the personal and communal aspects of DÃa de los Muertos, exploring how the celebration helps people connect with their loved ones who have passed away. Listen: On Apple Podcasts.
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The Stories of Mahabharata – Episode: Diwali Special
This podcast delves into the myths and legends behind Diwali, especially those connected to the Mahabharata. Listen: On Audioboom
History Guild - This episode explores the history of Diwali, discussing its significance and various interpretations within different cultures. Listen: On History Guild’s Podcast
Mythic Musings - In this episode, the hosts discuss the mythological and historical aspects of Diwali, including the stories that shape its celebration. Listen:​ On Apple Podcasts
On This Day: Diwali
This episode from the delves into the festival's origins, rituals, and significance, highlighting how different faiths honour the triumph of light over darkness.
Listen: On Britannica Podcast
But wait…there’s more!
Although not held on October 31st, we should not forget other lesser-known festivals dedicated to celebrating and remembering the dead:
Hungry Ghost Festival: Celebrated in various Buddhist cultures, these festivals honour the spirits of deceased ancestors, especially those suffering as hungry ghosts, characterised by insatiable cravings. Rituals include offering food, paper money, and performances to appease these spirits, especially during the seventh lunar month, rooted in the Ullambana Sutra: Click to learn more.
Obon Festival: A Japanese Buddhist tradition, Obon celebrates the return of ancestral spirits. Families visit graves, light lanterns, and perform dances to honour their ancestors, ensuring they find their way home. The festival typically occurs in mid-August. Click to learn more.
Pchum Ben: This Cambodian festival honours deceased ancestors over 15 days in September or October. Families prepare offerings of food and pay respects at pagodas, believing that their ancestors can accept these gifts and attain peace. Click to learn more.
Have I missed any? 🙊 Get loud and proud - tell everyone about your cultural festival!