Halloween, a History

Tonight’s episode features Kate — research assistant, resident whiz kid, and making her podcast debut — walking listeners through the history of Halloween from ancient rites to modern traditions. Kate traces the festival’s roots, how rituals and beliefs shifted across eras, and how those old practices morphed into the costumes, customs, and commercial rituals we know today. Clear, informative, and packed with context, this episode gives a tidy, fact-rich run-through that helps explain why Halloween feels the way it does.

Credits: Produced by Spring Heeled Jack and Mickie Eberz. 

Written and narrated by Kate. 

All original music written and performed by Empress.

Closing track: Pouring Down on You by Empress.