American children often dress up in costumes and go trick-or-treating around their neighborhoods, demanding candy at every house. But how much do you really know about this tradition?

Did you know it began in Ireland? People still go out into the countryside and light bonfires, and the children go trick-or-treating. They used to carve turnips but chances are that part of the tradition is no longer going on.

In Mexico, Oct. 31 is the beginning of a 3 day celebration of the Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) where families visit the graves of deceased family members and have parties there – in the cemetery.

In Germany, people used to hide their knives on October 31st to keep them out of the hands of malevolent spirits.

Here’s a link to a page with some terrific Dia de los Muertos craft ideas for kids of all ages. Have fun and try not to eat all the Halloween candy before the kids come around on the 31st!