Great Halloween Masks

Ever go into a costume store or Halloween store just to admire the costumes and masks? Some of the masks available are downright spooky (which of course is the point), while others are just weird. Finding information on good masks can be difficult, though, as you'll generally just find sites trying to sell you one. So what makes a good Halloween mask?

Why do we wear masks in the first place? Halloween has been celebrated for thousands of years, but its meaning has changed over time. Originally it was a pagan holiday; the Celts who lived in what is now Ireland celebrated the new year on November 1st, making October 31st the last day of the old year. One this day, the spirits of the dead were said to roam the earth, searching for bodies to possess. On the bright side, some of those spirits would deliver prophesies to the druids, or Celtic priests, on how to survive the winter.

As the Celts naturally didn't want to be possessed, they dressed in costumes made from animal heads and skins, dancing and making noise to scare off the spirits. Eventually, the Romans invaded Ireland; the Celtic celebration was then combined with a Roman celebration in late October marking when the dead were thought to pass into the afterlife. 

November 1st, on the other hand, was a Christian holiday: All Saints Day (or All Hallows) honoring all the saints in heaven. The night before eventually became known as All Hallow's Eve, soon shortened to Halloween. 

Although the original meanings of Halloween traditions are long gone, the traditions themselves live on; while we no longer believe that we need to wear masks to hide from evil spirits, it's still fun to dress up! 

Before choosing a mask, you should decide on a costume (unless of course you plan to create the costume around the mask, or wear the mask alone). Some masks are part of an elaborate costume, while others are sold separately. Budget is a big issue; marks range from under $20 to oh-my-you-paid-HOW-much territory. Generally cheaper masks are made out of plastic, while nicer ones are soft latex.

The most important thing is comfort and safety: be sure the mask doesn't obstruct your breathing, vision, or hearing. Also, be careful if you have a latex allergy, as many masks are latex-based. Be sure that the mask doesn't keep you from moving your neck.

Remember that you'll be wearing your mask for several hours; if it's at all uncomfortable in the store, you won't be having a good time by the end of the night!