Samhain is the beginning of the Celtic New Year. November 1st was traditionally known as samhain, literally translated the “end of summer”. This was the end of the Celtic year, the start of winter, a time for reflection.
Many legends concern the big meetings at samhain – this was the time to take stock and decide upon future activities, the Hill of Tara or on lakeshores.
But spiritual activities were an integral part of the feast.Traditionally all the fires were extinguished when oiche shamhna set in, making this the darkest night of the year. The fires were then re-lit, marking the start of the new year.