Halloween Folklore and Superstitions
We all know that Halloween, as a festival, is not an invention of the trick-or-treating Americans but it is far older than many people realise.
Plagues, Fires and Human Sacrifice: Hidden Meanings of London Nursery Rhymes
Kim McGreal explores the curious and macabre origins of some well-known childhood nursery rhymes.
Origins of Breaking the Wishbone: Horseshoes, Groins and Chicken Ouija Boards
‘Breaking the wishbone’ is a tradition around the world in the days after a Sunday roast, Thanksgiving or Christmas.
Loud and Proud: Battle Jackets as Folk Art
What unites bikers, punks, feminists and sewing? Scott Malthouse explores the social history of battle jackets.
What is First-footing and Can It Improve Your Year?
First-footing as a New Year custom is most common in Scotland and the north of England, but it does have regional, and international, variations.