Conversation/Dialogue:

Character 1: Did you know that Halloween has a long and fascinating history?

Character 2: Really? I didn't know that.

Character 1: Yes, Halloween can be traced back to the ancient Celtic festival of
Samhain. Samhain was a time to mark the end of the harvest season and
the beginning of the winter. The Celts believed that on the night of
Samhain, the veil ( ) between the worlds of the living and the dead
was thin, and that the ghosts of the dead could return to earth.

Character 2: That's kind of spooky ( ).

Character 1: Yes, it is. But it's also kind of cool. The Celts would celebrate Samhain by
lighting bonfires ( ), wearing costumes, and leaving food and drink out
for the dead.

Character 2: So, Halloween is a combination of Samhain and All Saints' Day?

Character 1: Exactly. In the 8th century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1st as
All Saints' Day, a day to honor all Christian saints. The evening before All
Saints' Day became known as All Hallows' Eve, and eventually Halloween.

Character 2: So, Halloween is a Christian holiday?

Character 1: Well, it started out as a Christian holiday, but over time it became more
Secular ( ). Today, Halloween is celebrated by people of all faiths,
and it's more about having fun and dressing up than it is about religion.

Character 2: That's good to know. I think Halloween is a lot of fun.

Character 1: Me too!

Character 2: Thanks for teaching me about the origin of Halloween.

Character 1: You're welcome!