By the 1890s, Halloween was increasingly celebrated in America, as articles
in magazines and newspapers helped popularize and spread Halloween traditions
to a national audience. While the origins of Halloween were rooted in
superstition and fortune telling, the holiday had become a night of mystery
and innocent fun.
These first Halloween gatherings were designed as matchmaking parties
for young people, with games to “predict” matrimonial futures
and ample opportunity for innocent flirtation. By the 1910s, other adults
and children had joined in the fun of Halloween parties and the practice
of donning Halloween costumes gained popularity. When postcards caught
the public’s fancy during the early 1900s, people enjoyed sending
colorful Halloween greetings to their family and friends. As the 20th
century progressed, civic organizations increasingly promoted Halloween
as an event for all. Many communities began to host public celebrations
that included festivals, parties, and costumed parades.
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