31/10/2025
this week is all about guising, given it is the 31st of October! It's what we now know as dressing up for Halloween, but why do we do it?
1. Guising began as part of the ancient Pagan festival of Samhain, celebrated by the Celts to mark the end of the summer and the harvest season, and welcomed the darker season which symbolised death and rebirth
2. During Samhain, the Celts believed that the veil between the world of the living and the 'Otherworld' was at its thinnest, therefore spirits and supernatural creatures could cross over more easily
3. Guising, or disguising oneself would offer protection from these spirits that crossed over. These original costumes were truly terrifying, with animal skins and skulls commonly used
4. When guising, performing is mandatory - a song, joke, or other 'party piece' is required in exchange for a reward, or a 'treat'. Treats were traditionally cakes, fruits, nuts
5. Before pumpkins arrived on the scene (thanks to migrants taking the traditions to America) revelers carved turnips or 'neeps'. One can only imagine how arduous this was! The results are impactful though - we'll leave you to Google the photos...
Does keeping on top of your accounting scare the life out of you?
Would you rather try and carve a neep, over pinning down your figures?
There's no need to be afraid, with our help your business could be born again!
We offer traditional accounting services, in addition to consultancy packages.
You can speak to us by mailing [email protected] or calling 0141 889 1161 . There's also a contact form on our website www.caas.org.uk
C Allan & Son Accountancy Services, where the only terrifying thing is how long you left it to get in touch with us.