(Posted October 20, 2008)

HUNTINGDON, Pa. -- The student club United Spiritual Community of Juniata College is sponsoring a celebration of the Celtic New Year at 6 p.m., Friday, Oct. 24 on the patio of Tussey-Terrace residence hall on the Juniata campus.

The celebration is called Samhain (pronounced "sow-en"), and its traditions predate the celebration of Halloween. The origins of the holiday are traced to Gaelic culture, where the end of summer and of harvest season was recognized with a three-day festival.

The party will feature foods such as Bread of the Dead, colcannon (a Celtic dish made from mashed potatoes, cabbage, and other ingredients), and Samhain cider.

Participants can wear costumes and there will be a short lesson on the history of Samhain and Halloween.

Activities will include bobbing for apples and making masks. The celebration will end at 10 p.m.


Contact April Feagley at feaglea@juniata.edu or (814) 641-3131 for more information.