The Beauregard Parish Mobile Electronic Library (MEL) and the DeRidder & Rural Branches would like to wish all a
Remember the meaning of Halloween Halloween is one of the oldest holidays, dating back thousands of years. All Hollows Eve (October 31st), is the night before the Christain holiday, All Saints Day, (November 1st). The night before All Saints Day Christains would dress up as their favorite Saints and parade to the outskirts of town leading the ghosts away in a All Hollows Eve Procession. 
The Legend Behind the Pumpkin The use of the jack-o-laanterns came to America from Ireland. There is a old Irish folk tale of a man by the name of Jack who trick the the devil several times. He tricked the devil into swearing that he would never take his soul or try to claim it in any way. When Jack died, he was turned away from heaven for being mean. He was also turned away from hell because of the promise the devil made never to take his soul. As he was turned away the devil threw a live coal at him. Jack was eating a turnip at the time and he put the coal inside to light his way back to earth. Ever since then he has been traveling all over the earth with his jack-o-lantern, searching for a place to rest. When Irish immigrants came to America they brought this Halloween tradition with them, and because at this time of year there are no turnips only pumpkins, this is how the pumpkin came to be the traditional jack-o-lantern. 
Let's remember to watch out for our children on Halloween night. October 31stThe Mayor's Halloween Trail - West Park5:00 pm - 6:00pm For Children ages K thru 5th grade Trick or Treat Night Door to Door From - 6:00pm - 8:00pm 
Happy Halloween from all of us! 
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