What Do Halloween and Estate Planning Have in Common?

Estate planning gives people one last opportunity to “communicate” with the dead. Through the documents, letters and plans left behind, we hear from loved ones one more time.

This year, many of us are eagerly anticipating Halloween. Once considered a children’s holiday, it has evolved into a celebration for all ages, with elaborate costumes, themed events, and increasing overall spending. Whether you’re planning to go trick-or-treating, have a spooky movie night, or host a party, Halloween’s popularity continues to rise. In fact, in 2023, 73% of Americans planned to celebrate Halloween in some way, up from 69% in 2022. This includes activities like trick-or-treating, parties, and community events.

A Surprising Connection Between Halloween and Estate Planning

Believe it or not, estate planning and Halloween have something in common. According to History.com, Halloween traces its origins to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain (pronounced “sow-in”). The Celts, who lived thousands of years ago, celebrated the New Year on November 1st, marking the end of summer and the harvest. The arrival of winter was often associated with death. The Celts believed that on the night before the new year, the boundary between the living and the dead became blurred. On October 31st, they celebrated Samhain, a night when they believed the spirits of the dead returned to Earth.

It’s About Connection

While estate planning doesn’t connect people with the spirits of their loved ones (that’s a different profession entirely!), it does offer a way to communicate after death. Through the documents, letters, and plans left behind, people have one final opportunity to “speak” to their family and friends. This last interaction can provide comfort, clarity, and peace during what is often a very challenging time for loved ones.

Taking the Fright Out of Estate Planning

Working with an experienced attorney makes the estate planning process much less frightening, any time of year. While there are many DIY methods for generating basic legal documents, there’s a lot you might not know—especially when it comes to complex laws and potential pitfalls. With professional guidance, you can ensure that your estate plan is thorough and effective, giving you peace of mind. As for Halloween, well, taking the fright out of that might take away some of the fun!

Whether you’re celebrating Halloween or considering your future plans, both serve as reminders that preparing for the unknown can bring peace and connection.

updated 9-29-2024