From the telephone to the television, there have been many iconic things born in Scotland. This includes everyone’s favourite spooky festival, Halloween. Halloween first started life as the festival of Samhain, which marked the end of summer and the beginning of winter, was celebrated by the ancient Celts in Scotland and other parts of the British Isles over 2,000 years ago.
Samhain was a time when the Celts believed that the veil between the world of the living and the world of the dead was at its thinnest, and that spirits could freely roam the earth. To protect themselves from evil spirits, the Celts would light bonfires, wear costumes, and leave offerings of food and drink outside their homes.
When Christianity came to Scotland, Samhain was gradually replaced by All Hallows' Eve, the evening before All Saints' Day. However, many of the old pagan traditions associated with Samhain survived, and these are the traditions that we now celebrate on Halloween.
Donning a fancy dress has always been prominent in Scotland, you could say it even saved Bonnie Prince Charlie’s life! When escaping Scotland after the Battle of Culloden, although stylish he didn’t dawn his namesake Prince Charlie jacket, but instead he dressed up as a woman to get away unnoticed.
Our dark and brooding Silver Mist tartan is ideal for this time of year. The tartan design was inspired by the enchanting mists and dramatic scenery found across the shorelines and valleys of Scotland. The dark hues of the tartan are perfect for matching with grey and black kilt jackets and accessories.
If you are attending a wedding this autumn, we have plenty of tartans to complement the season. If you need a last minute hire, we'd be happy to help whether you have your eye on one of our hire tartans or fancy grabbing a bargain with our Our Choice Hire service.
If you choose to don your tartan this spooky season, please share your pictures with us. We'd love to see them!