Fall is in the air in Rock Hill and that can only mean one thing: Halloween is almost here! As you’re breaking out the fall decor, hanging spooky lights, and designing the scariest jack-o-lantern ever, enjoy this brief history of Halloween.
Ancient Roots
Halloween has evolved into a beloved holiday that combines ancient traditions with modern-day fun. Its origins date back over 2,000 years to the Celtic festival of Samhain, celebrated on the night of October 31st. This was a time when the Celts believed that the boundary between the living and the dead blurred, and spirits could roam the earth. To ward off these wandering spirits, people would light bonfires and wear costumes made of animal skins. As Christianity spread, Samhain was adapted into All Hallows’ Eve, which eventually became Halloween.
Halloween in the United States
The holiday as we know it in the United States began to take shape in the 19th century, as Irish and Scottish immigrants brought their customs to America. By the early 20th century, Halloween had transitioned from a night of superstition to one of family-friendly fun. Children began dressing in costumes and going door-to-door asking for treats, a practice that grew into the beloved tradition of trick-or-treating.
Halloween and Coke
During the 1950s, Halloween became even more commercialized as companies began marketing products specifically for the holiday. Coca-Cola played a key role in this era. While known for its association with Christmas, Coca-Cola also embraced Halloween in its advertising campaigns. Vintage Coca-Cola ads from the mid-20th century show families and children enjoying a bottle of Coke while dressed in costumes or preparing for Halloween parties. These nostalgic images helped to cement Coca-Cola as part of the fabric of American celebrations, including Halloween.
Here in Rock Hill, the Coca-Cola Bottling Company has been a community staple since 1906. The local bottler has provided refreshing beverages to families for over a century, and Halloween is no exception. While the holiday has become synonymous with candy and costumes, a crisp Coca-Cola has often been part of the experience, whether at Halloween parties or as a refreshing treat after a night of trick-or-treating.
Enjoy the Holiday
Today, Halloween continues to grow in popularity, with billions spent annually on candy, decorations, and costumes. While the traditions have changed over time, the sense of community and festivity remains strong. Whether you’re handing out candy, attending a party, or just reliving the nostalgia of past Halloweens, a Coca-Cola is always a great companion to the celebration. As generations of Rock Hill residents can attest, it’s a tradition that never goes out of style.