🕯️ All Saints Day Countdown
November 1, 2026
About All Saints Day
All Saints Day, also known as All Hallows Day or the Feast of All Saints, is observed on November 1 in Western Christianity (Catholic, Anglican, and many Protestant traditions). It honors all Christian saints, both those canonized by the church and the many holy people throughout history whose names may not be known. The day has origins in early Christian practice of honoring martyrs — by the 8th century, Pope Gregory III established November 1 as the universal date for honoring all saints, a move likely intended to Christianize existing Celtic autumn harvest celebrations. The evening before (October 31) became All Hallows Eve — the origin of Halloween.
All Saints Day Around the World
In many predominantly Catholic countries, All Saints Day is a major public holiday. In Mexico and other Latin American countries, it merges with the traditional Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) celebration on November 1–2, a vibrant tradition of honoring deceased loved ones with altars, flowers, food, and visits to cemeteries. In Poland (Dzień Wszystkich Świętych), the day is one of the most important of the year, with millions visiting cemeteries to light candles and bring flowers. All Souls Day on November 2 focuses specifically on the faithful departed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between All Saints Day and All Souls Day?
All Saints Day (November 1) honors all saints and those in heaven. All Souls Day (November 2) commemorates all faithful departed souls, particularly those in purgatory according to Catholic teaching.
How does All Saints Day relate to Halloween?
Halloween (October 31) is the evening before All Saints Day. The name comes from "All Hallows Eve" — the night before All Hallows (Saints) Day. Many Halloween traditions have pre-Christian roots that merged with the church observance.