The omens that still haunt Halloween: this is how they explain popular beliefs

Each October 31millions of people celebrate halloween with costumes, candy and parades. But, beyond fun and horror movies, this date also carries a series of superstitions that have been passed down from generation to generation.

In Colombia, as in many countries, Halloween night It is not only associated with the festive, but also with the mystical and the unknown.

And although some see these beliefs as simple urban legends, others prefer not to challenge the old omens that, according to tradition, They protect from bad energies.

In different regions of the country, especially in the towns of the Coffee Axis, Antioquia and Valle del Cauca, There is still talk of certain rituals and customs that should not be broken during the night of the 31st.

Also read: How to identify safe candy on Halloween? Experts advise

What are the beliefs?

Three of them stand out for being the most controversial, curious and persistent.

1. Do not sweep at night: One of the oldest beliefs says that sweeping during Halloween night can “sweep away” prosperity and chase away good energies from the home. In some municipalities it is claimed that, by doing so, there is a risk of attracting wandering souls or spirits in search of refuge.

For this reason, many people prefer to leave everything clean before night falls. There are even those who put a broom behind the door to “scare away” unwanted visitorsboth from the earthly and spiritual worlds.

2. Not looking in the mirror after midnight: This omen is, without a doubt, one of the most feared. Tradition indicates that looking at one’s own reflection after Midnight can open a portal to the afterlife.

It is said that, at that moment, the veil between the living and the dead becomes thinner and that the mirror can show more than just one’s own face: that of a spirit trying to communicate.

For this reason, in some homes mirrors are covered or Avoid passing them after twelve. This custom, inherited in part from European legends and adapted by Colombian popular tradition, maintains its aura of mystery year after year.

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3. Be careful with candles that go out by themselves!: Lighting candles on Halloween is not unusual, many people do it as part of the decoration or to create a mysterious atmosphere.

However, superstition warns that if a candle burns turns off for no apparent reasonit’s because a soul has just passed by. Some interpret this fact as a sign of protection, while others see it as a warning that a spirit has not found rest. Therefore, it is recommended to keep lit candles in safe places and avoid leaving a single flickering light in the dark.

Despite technological advances and the skeptical outlook of the new generations, These beliefs are still alive in many Colombian families. For some, they are simple anecdotes told by grandmothers; for others, an essential part of respect for the supernatural.