Miniature ghost ornament. Halloween has its origins in the ancient festival of Samhain, the Celtic New Year, when spirits were allowed to return to earth to visit. Christianity incorporated this into All Hallow s Eve, Oct. 31, prior to All Saints Day. The Irish brought Halloween to America in the 1840s, with the tradition of dressing in costumes and playing pranks in the hope of keeping evil spirits away.Smiling white ghost with arms spread wide. 10-8-2