As we step into the end of October, the chill in the air serves as a reminder that winter is just around the corner. The leaves are turning, clocks are going back on Sunday, and many of us are still recovering from the effects of storm Ashley. It’s a time of transition—both in nature and in our lives—and it’s important to remind ourselves that no matter what changes come our way, we don’t have to face them alone.

For those of you who don’t know, my wife is from Mexico, and this time of year always leads to conversations about how different cultures remember those who have passed. In Mexico, they celebrate Día de los Muertos (the Day of the Dead) on the 1st of November, a vibrant, colourful festival where families honour their loved ones who have passed away. It’s a bit different from Halloween here in Ireland, but in many ways, it’s the same—the idea that this is a time to remember those who are no longer with us.

And that’s the thing about this time of year—it brings people together. Whether it’s through Halloween traditions, bonfires, or simply gathering with family and friends, it’s a season that reminds us to stay connected.

Here in Ireland, Halloween has deep roots in our culture. It originated from the Celtic festival of Samhain, over 2,000 years ago. The Celts believed that at this time, the veil between our world and the spirit world was at its thinnest, allowing the dead to walk among us. While today we celebrate Halloween with costumes and pumpkin carving, the essence of the tradition remains the same—it’s about acknowledging the past and staying connected to those we love.

Did you know that carving Jack-o’-lanterns originally involved turnips instead of pumpkins? When Irish immigrants brought the tradition to America, they switched to pumpkins, which were easier to carve. Another Halloween tradition that originated in Ireland is “mumming,” where people dressed in disguises, not for fun, but to confuse wandering spirits so they wouldn’t be recognised.

Even the tradition of trick-or-treating can be traced back to ancient Irish customs. During Samhain, people would go door to door, offering songs or prayers in exchange for food, which would then be shared at community feasts to appease spirits. And, of course, who can forget the traditional Irish Barmbrack, a fruitcake with hidden charms, each offering a prediction for the year ahead—will you find the ring and be married soon, or discover a coin and become wealthy?

If you’d like to learn more about Halloween’s origins in Ireland, visit Irish Central or check out Ireland Before You Die, both of which offer fascinating insights into the festival’s history.

Autumn in Ireland

Here in Ireland, October brings its own beauty. The leaves turn golden, there’s a crisp chill in the air, and we prepare for the clocks to go back, marking the darker evenings of winter. Storm Ashley has left its mark, and we hope everyone has stayed safe during the recent wild weather. For those of us working outdoors, this time of year presents unique challenges, but the beauty of autumn still manages to shine through the storm clouds.

While Halloween is a fun and festive time, it’s also an opportunity to reflect on the cycles of life and the traditions that have shaped our culture. But it’s not just about the past; it’s about the present too. The colder months can be tough, especially as we move towards winter. As someone who works outdoors, I can tell you that layering up against the wind and rain isn’t always enough! We all have our own challenges, and this time of year can feel overwhelming for many. That’s why it’s so important to reach out—to your family, to your friends, or even to us here at Falconers Undertakers.

We’re not just here for you when the worst happens; we’re here to serve our community in every way we can. Whether it’s helping families through difficult times or simply offering a friendly chat, we want you to know that we’re always available. It’s easy to feel isolated during the colder, darker months, but remember that staying connected—whether in person or just through a phone call—can make all the difference.

So, as we enjoy these crisp autumn days, let’s make sure we’re looking out for one another. Take the time to enjoy the simple pleasures of the season—like the beauty of the falling leaves or a warm cup of tea after being outside. But also take the time to check in on those around you. And if you ever need us, for any reason, we’re only a call away.

Warm regards,
Erich Falconer