Tag: Family

How to Transition Your Home from Fall to Holiday Décor

Posted on by gigis ramblings
living room decorated for the holidays

As the weather cools and the last of the autumn leaves fall, it’s natural to start thinking about holiday decorations. For some people, that transition starts as soon as Halloween is over, while others—like me—prefer to soak up every last bit of fall. Personally, I don’t start my holiday decorating until Thanksgiving night, because I adore all my pumpkins, scarecrows, and turkeys. But here’s the thing: you should decorate whenever it feels right for you. Enjoy the holidays your way.

Step 1: Start with a Clean Slate

Before you begin pulling out the garlands and ornaments, take a little time to clear away fall clutter. Dust off surfaces, pack up your pumpkins, and give your home a light refresh. This helps you see your space with new eyes and makes decorating less overwhelming.

Step 2: Choose a Transition Theme

If you’re not ready to say goodbye to fall just yet, try blending both seasons together. Think cozy plaid blankets mixed with twinkling lights or neutral holiday tones paired with your favorite rustic décor. Using textures like burlap, pinecones, and evergreen branches helps create a warm, in-between look.

Step 3: Swap Out Scents and Textures

Changing the way your home feels and smells can make a big impact. Switch from pumpkin spice and cinnamon scents to wintery aromas like cedar, peppermint, or vanilla. Add a few faux fur throws or knitted pillows to bring in that cozy holiday vibe without going full Christmas right away.

Step 4: Layer in Holiday Touches Slowly

If you like to ease into the holidays, start small. Add candles, wreaths, or a few twinkling lights to your existing décor. Gradually replace fall elements with more festive ones as you go—maybe swap your fall wreath for one with pine and berries, or trade out your orange candles for silver and red.

Step 5: Make It Personal

There’s no rulebook when it comes to decorating for the holidays. Maybe you love bold Christmas reds, or maybe you prefer a soft, snowy winter palette. You might even leave a few pumpkins out alongside your nutcrackers—and that’s perfectly fine! The best décor reflects you, your family, and your traditions.

Step 6: Enjoy the Process

Whether you decorate early in November or wait until Thanksgiving night like I do, remember that the holidays are about joy and togetherness. Don’t stress about perfection—just create a space that makes you happy every time you walk through the door.

Veterans Hold a Special Place in My Heart

Posted on by gigis ramblings
US flag with old cannon

Every year when Veteran’s Day comes around, I can’t help but think about my own family and the legacy of service that runs deep in our blood. For me, it’s more than just a day on the calendar—it’s personal.

My Family’s Legacy of Service

Both of my grandfathers served in combat during World War II. They didn’t talk much about what they went through, but their silence spoke volumes. My Granddaddy was a Purple Heart recipient, a quiet, humble man who carried his experiences with grace and strength. He never looked for praise or sympathy—he just lived his life with the kind of integrity that leaves a mark on everyone around him.

And then there was my maternal grandmother. She served, too, during a time when women weren’t always encouraged to take on military roles. But she did it anyway—with courage, determination, and a sense of purpose that made me proud long before I was old enough to truly understand what it meant.

Lessons Their Service Taught Me

Growing up with those examples shaped how I see the world. My grandparents taught me that service isn’t about recognition—it’s about sacrifice, honor, and heart. It’s about doing what’s right even when nobody’s watching. Their stories remind me that courage doesn’t always shout. Sometimes it’s quiet. Sometimes it’s found in showing up, doing your part, and carrying on even when it’s hard.

What Veteran’s Day Means to Me

Veteran’s Day isn’t just a day to say thank you—it’s a reminder to live in a way that honors those who’ve served. It’s a time to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy because of people who were willing to risk everything. To me, it’s about remembering the faces, the stories, and the hearts behind the uniforms.

To all the veterans who’ve served, and to the families who’ve stood beside them—thank you. Your courage, strength, and sacrifice don’t go unnoticed. You are remembered and appreciated, not just today, but every day.

True Crimes That Happened on Thanksgiving

Posted on by gigis ramblings
thanksgiving crime scene

Thanksgiving is meant to be a time for gratitude, family, and good food—but for some, it’s a day that turned dark and unforgettable. Over the years, several shocking crimes have unfolded on this holiday, proving that even the most peaceful traditions can take a deadly turn. Let’s look at a few Thanksgiving tragedies that shook their communities to the core.

The Thanksgiving Day Massacre – Jupiter, Florida (2009)

What was supposed to be a joyful family dinner turned into a horrific scene when 35-year-old Paul Michael Merhige opened fire on his own relatives during Thanksgiving dinner. He killed four family members, including his 6-year-old cousin Makayla. Merhige had reportedly harbored long-standing resentment toward his family, and the attack was carefully planned. He fled the scene and was captured weeks later after being featured on America’s Most Wanted.

The Thanksgiving Slasher – New York City (2016)

On Thanksgiving Day 2016, police were called to a Manhattan apartment where 23-year-old Halima Aden was found stabbed to death. Her boyfriend, Rasheem Brown, was later arrested and charged with her murder. Investigators revealed that an argument over dinner preparations escalated into violence. The case served as a grim reminder that domestic disputes can turn deadly—even on a day meant for love and togetherness.

The Hidden Horror of the Bradford Family (Texas, 2012)

In 2012, in rural Texas, police discovered the bodies of 48-year-old Timothy Bradford and his wife, Debra, after neighbors grew concerned when they didn’t show up for Thanksgiving dinner. Their son, 22-year-old William Bradford, later confessed to killing both parents the night before. He calmly joined friends for a Thanksgiving meal the next day as though nothing had happened. When police confronted him days later, he admitted to the murders without remorse.

The Turkey Day Tragedy – Sacramento, California (2013)

Thanksgiving morning in 2013, neighbors heard gunfire coming from a quiet home in Sacramento. When officers arrived, they found a family of four dead inside. Investigators learned that 28-year-old Andres Avila shot his wife and two children before turning the gun on himself. Family members said the couple had been struggling financially and emotionally. The case became known locally as the “Turkey Day Tragedy.”

The Murder of Heather Bogle – Ohio (2015)

While Heather’s murder wasn’t discovered until days later, investigators believe she was killed over Thanksgiving weekend. The 28-year-old mother was last seen leaving work the day after the holiday. Her body was found beaten and shot, stuffed inside the trunk of her car. The case took several years to solve, with multiple false arrests along the way. Eventually, Daniel Myers, her former coworker, was convicted. The case exposed corruption and incompetence within local law enforcement and sparked community outrage.

Thanksgiving Gone Wrong – Maine (2018)

In 2018, 47-year-old Patrick McCabe was arrested after stabbing his brother during a Thanksgiving dinner in Maine. The fight reportedly started over politics and quickly escalated. The brother survived, but the story went viral as a symbol of how volatile family gatherings can become when tempers flare.

A Day for Family—and for Murder

These stories remind us that beneath the warmth of the holiday season, tensions, secrets, and resentment can sometimes boil over. Thanksgiving may be about gratitude, but for the families of these victims, the day will forever be marked by loss.

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.

Simple Comfort Meals to Make When It’s Cold

Posted on by gigis ramblings
soup cooking on stove baked chicken on counter

Tomorrow’s supposed to be our first chilly day of the season, and I couldn’t be happier. After all this Texas heat, I’m more than ready to bring out the cozy meals. I already know what’s on our menu—I’ll be making myself a big pot of soup and fixing Santiago a baked chicken with dressing. But with the cooler weather rolling in, it’s the perfect time to talk about all those simple comfort meals that make cold days something to look forward to.

Warm, Hearty Soups

Soup season is officially back, and it’s the easiest way to chase off the chill. Whether you’re simmering a pot of creamy potato soup, chicken and dumplings, or a spicy chili, nothing hits quite like that first spoonful. The best part? Soups are low-effort but high-reward—perfect for slow days when you just want the house to smell amazing. Pair with a slice of cornbread or a grilled cheese sandwich and you’ve got a complete, cozy meal.

Classic Casseroles

Casseroles are the ultimate comfort food multitaskers—easy to prep, budget-friendly, and perfect for leftovers. A creamy chicken and rice casserole, cheesy baked ziti, or shepherd’s pie will fill your home with warmth and fill everyone’s belly with happiness. They’re the kinds of dishes that remind you of family gatherings and Sunday dinners after church.

Slow-Cooked Favorites

Pull out that slow cooker or Dutch oven—it’s time for all those rich, hearty meals that taste like they took all day (because they did). Think tender pot roast with carrots and potatoes, beef stew that melts in your mouth, or a slow-cooked gumbo that fills the kitchen with Cajun spice. The longer it cooks, the better it gets.

Down-Home Southern Sides

No comfort meal is complete without the sides. Fluffy mashed potatoes with gravy, macaroni and cheese, buttered corn, or baked beans can turn a simple dinner into a feast. And let’s not forget a pan of golden cornbread—because nothing soaks up that last bit of gravy or broth quite like it.

Sweet Finishes

After a comforting meal, a warm dessert is the perfect ending. Apple crisp, bread pudding, peach cobbler, or banana pudding—these aren’t fancy desserts, just old-fashioned favorites that never disappoint. They’re the kind of sweets that make you want to stay curled up in your pajamas a little longer.

When the weather cools down, comfort food does more than just fill you up—it wraps you up. It brings people to the table, slows down the pace, and makes home feel even cozier. So as the cold creeps in, pull out those family recipes, stir up a pot of something good, and let the warmth start from the inside out.

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.

Thanksgiving Traditions I’ll Always Hold On To

Posted on by gigis ramblings
thanksgiving festivities

Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite times of the year. It’s more than just turkey and pie — it’s the memories, the music, the little traditions that make it special year after year. Some things might change, but there are a few Thanksgiving rituals I’ll never let go of.

Staying Up All Night Cooking

There’s something comforting about the quiet hours before Thanksgiving morning — the kitchen warm, music playing softly, and the smell of everything coming together. I stay up all night cooking the turkey, prepping the dressing, and making my sausage balls along with all the other goodies. It’s exhausting, sure, but it’s also the heart of the holiday for me. And yes, my cranberry sauce will always come straight out of the can — one big, wobbly blob with the lines still showing. That’s non-negotiable.

Music, Memories, and Late-Night Reflections

While the oven hums and the house fills with the smell of home cooking, I love to listen to music and think back on Thanksgivings gone by. It’s usually a mix of laughter and a little nostalgia — remembering my mama in her apron, the kids underfoot, and the beautiful chaos that always came with family gatherings.

Parade Morning Magic

No matter how late I’ve stayed up the night before, I’m up early on Thanksgiving morning. Watching the parades has always been part of the day — it just wouldn’t feel right without it. I used to spread the newspaper out across the table, flipping through all the Black Friday ads while the floats went by. These days, with no local paper, I scroll through my phone instead. It’s not quite the same, but it still brings back that familiar excitement.

Black Friday Memories

Back in the day, I’d be up before dawn, coffee in hand, ready to hit the stores with a plan and a mission. Elbow-to-elbow with other shoppers, hunting down those doorbusters — that was half the fun. Now, I do about 95% of my shopping online. It’s calmer, easier, and honestly, I don’t miss the crowds one bit. But I still smile thinking about those early mornings and how wild it all used to be.

Putting Up the Christmas Trees

My absolute favorite tradition comes right after Thanksgiving dinner — putting up my trees. I know a lot of folks start early these days, but I love my fall and Thanksgiving décor too much to rush through it. That was my mama’s tradition, and I hold it close to my heart. My main tree is always a live one, so putting it up before Thanksgiving isn’t really an option if I want it to last through New Year’s. There’s just something special about making the switch from pumpkins to twinkle lights when the leftovers are packed away and the house smells like pie.

Football and Charlie Brown

You can bet there’s always football on the TV, especially when the Dallas Cowboys play — that’s just part of being a Texan on Thanksgiving Day. And sometime during the week before, I always make sure to watch A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving when it airs. It’s a small, sweet reminder of the simpler holidays when I was growing up.

Thanksgiving may look a little different these days — fewer ads to flip through and more shopping done online — but the spirit of it all stays the same. Family, food, laughter, and those timeless little traditions are what make the day so special. And those? I’ll always hold on to.

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.

Best Small Towns to Visit in November

Posted on by gigis ramblings
driving a winding a road in fall

There’s something about November that just feels like home. The crowds are gone, the air turns crisp, and small towns across the country come alive with cozy charm, fall festivals, and the first glimmer of the holidays. If you’re craving a slower pace before the chaos of December, here are some of the best small towns to visit in November.

1. Leavenworth, Washington

This Bavarian-style mountain village is pure magic in November. The town starts its transformation into a Christmas wonderland toward the end of the month, with twinkling lights, mulled cider, and alpine charm at every turn. It’s the perfect place to kick off the holiday spirit before December crowds arrive.

2. Helen, Georgia

Helen looks like it was plucked straight out of a European fairytale. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this little German-inspired town is cozy year-round, but November is special. The autumn leaves are still hanging on, and the chill in the air pairs perfectly with a plate of schnitzel or a glass of local wine.

3. Fredericksburg, Texas

Y’all know I had to include a Texas favorite. Fredericksburg is stunning in November — the crowds thin out after Oktoberfest, the weather’s perfect for exploring Main Street, and the wineries are in full swing. Plus, the town starts decking out for Christmas, so it’s a two-for-one kind of visit.

4. Stowe, Vermont

Stowe is known for its vibrant fall foliage, but November offers a quieter kind of beauty. The last golden leaves cling to the trees, snow might start dusting the mountaintops, and the whole place feels peaceful. Grab a hot cider, explore the local shops, and enjoy the calm before ski season kicks off.

5. Eureka Springs, Arkansas

This quirky little Ozark town is a hidden gem in late fall. The Victorian architecture, winding streets, and forested hills make it a postcard-perfect getaway. November brings fewer tourists and cooler weather, ideal for exploring the shops, trails, and historic hotels that make Eureka Springs so unique.

6. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

When the Smoky Mountains start to quiet down after October’s leaf-peeping rush, Gatlinburg hits its sweet spot. November brings cooler days and fewer crowds, plus you can catch the start of the Winter Magic Lights display that turns the town into a twinkling mountain village.

7. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

This seaside gem is a cozy dream in November. The weather’s mild, the beaches are peaceful, and the town’s cottages look straight out of a fairytale. Wander the art galleries, sip local wine, and breathe in that salty ocean air before the holiday season kicks in.

8. Beaufort, South Carolina

If you want Southern charm with a coastal twist, Beaufort’s your spot. November brings gentle weather, quiet streets, and Spanish moss-draped oaks that make every photo look like a painting. Take a carriage ride, stroll the historic district, and watch the sun dip over the water.

9. Galena, Illinois

Galena shines in November. This small Midwestern town has cobblestone streets, 19th-century buildings, and the kind of charm Hallmark movies are made of. It’s also one of the best spots for early holiday shopping thanks to its boutiques and local artisans.

10. Woodstock, Vermont

If there was ever a town that captured the soul of fall, it’s Woodstock. The covered bridges, cozy inns, and crackling fireplaces make it a perfect November destination. You’ll find peace, beauty, and the perfect backdrop for reflection before the busy holiday season begins.

The Magic of November Travel

November’s the sweet spot — the lull between the rush of summer and the whirlwind of the holidays. It’s when small towns shine their brightest, offering a cozy mix of quiet streets, warm hospitality, and a slower rhythm that reminds you what travel’s all about.

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.

The Cozy Girl’s Guide to November

Posted on by gigis ramblings
a lady cozied up with hot chocolate and a book

November just feels different. The air’s got a chill, the leaves are crunching underfoot, and life seems to slow down just enough for us to breathe it all in. After the chaos of summer and the rush of early fall, November is that sweet, calm middle ground — the perfect time to cozy up, throw on some comfy pjs, get intentional, and enjoy the small things that make life soft and warm again.

Slow Down and Settle In

This month is made for rest. The days get shorter, which is nature’s way of nudging us to slow down, not speed up. I know it’s not a popular opinion, but I love falling back to standard time. This is God’s time, and our circadian rhythm follows it naturally. There’s something peaceful about watching the sunset a little earlier and letting the evening stretch out slow. It’s permission to pause — to read, reflect, or simply sit in the quiet without guilt.

Create a Cozy Atmosphere

If there’s ever been a time to lean into soft lighting, flickering candles, and warm blankets, it’s now. I always pull out my favorite throws, swap bright décor for earth tones, and light something that smells like baked apples or cinnamon sugar. The goal? Turn your home into a little haven where you actually want to stay in.

Nourish Yourself Inside and Out

November food hits different — soups, stews, casseroles, and baked treats that make the whole house smell like home. Lean into those comfort foods, but don’t forget the emotional side of nourishment too. Journal more. Sleep longer. Take long baths. Light a candle and just sit still for a while. Cozy isn’t just about what you wear — it’s about how you treat yourself.

Make Space for Gratitude

It’s the season of Thanksgiving, sure, but gratitude shouldn’t be confined to one day. Keep a running list of small joys — like your favorite fuzzy socks, quiet mornings, or a good book that keeps you up past bedtime. When life starts to feel heavy or hurried, those little reminders pull you back to what matters most.

Savor the Simple Things

Go for slow walks in the cool air. Drink hot chocolate on the porch. Watch a Christmas movie or two. November is about finding magic in the mundane. It’s the calm before the holiday storm — a time to soak in life before the tinsel and to-do lists take over.

So this month, lean into your cozy era. Wear the sweater. Light the candle. Let yourself rest. Because November isn’t just another month on the calendar — it’s an invitation to live slower, softer, and sweeter.

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.

Honoring Life and Love: My Thoughts on Día de Muertos

Posted on by gigis ramblings
dia de los muertos celebration

Every November 1st and 2nd, families across Mexico and beyond come together to celebrate Día de Muertos — the Day of the Dead. It’s not a day of mourning but of remembrance, a time when the veil between the living and the departed grows thin, and love bridges the gap.

Ever since I was able to spend a significant amount of time in Mexico City, I’ve admired this beautiful tradition. The colors, the music, the marigolds — everything about it is meant to honor life, not death. The belief is simple yet powerful: our loved ones never truly leave us as long as we keep their memory alive.

The Meaning Behind the Altars

At the heart of every Día de Muertos celebration is the ofrenda, an altar built to welcome the spirits home. Each piece of the altar has a meaning — candles to light the way, water to quench thirst after a long journey, and favorite foods or trinkets to remind the spirit of home. The marigolds, or cempasúchil, with their bright orange petals and sweet scent, are said to guide souls back to the land of the living.

For many, the ofrenda isn’t just decoration — it’s a love letter to those who came before us. It’s a space where grief turns into gratitude, and remembrance turns into celebration.

A Celebration of Connection

I’ve always believed that love doesn’t fade when someone passes — it just changes form. Día de Muertos captures that so beautifully. Families gather around gravesites, share stories, eat together, and laugh at old memories. It’s not somber — it’s lively, colorful, and deeply emotional.

The sugar skulls, or calaveras, are playful reminders that death is a part of life, not something to fear. The pan de muerto — that sweet, soft bread often shaped with bones — symbolizes the cycle of life itself. It’s a blend of sweetness and symbolism, much like the holiday itself.

Bringing the Spirit Home

Even if you’re not in Mexico, there’s something to learn from this tradition. Setting up a small ofrenda at home, lighting a candle, or cooking your loved one’s favorite meal can be a meaningful way to honor them. It’s not about getting everything “right” — it’s about connection, love, and remembrance.

For me, I find comfort in thinking that maybe, just maybe, our loved ones stop by when we speak their names or share their stories. Maybe the warmth we feel isn’t just memory — it’s them.

November Blog Goals: Staying Consistent Through the Holidays

Posted on by gigis ramblings
Hello November post

Every November feels like a blur, doesn’t it? Between family gatherings, travel plans, and holiday prep, it’s easy for blogging to take a back seat. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that consistency—especially during the busy months—makes all the difference. Whether you’re a full-time blogger or just writing when you can, this time of year can test your discipline, creativity, and focus.

Balancing Holiday Hustle with Blog Goals

The holidays can easily swallow your schedule whole. Suddenly, days are filled with cooking, decorating, and running errands, and before you know it, your blog sits untouched for weeks. That’s why I’m setting a simple goal this November: stay consistent without burning out.

Instead of trying to publish something every few days, I’m focusing on quality over quantity. That might mean batching content early in the month, scheduling posts in advance, or jotting down quick ideas to turn into full articles later. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress.

Planning Ahead Makes All the Difference

Planning ahead might sound tedious, but it’s a game-changer when life gets chaotic. A quick brainstorming session can keep your content calendar full without last-minute panic. For me, that means sitting down with a notebook and writing out post ideas for the month—holiday-related topics, year-end reflections, and a few evergreen pieces that’ll still be relevant come January.

If you know you’ve got a busy week coming, get your drafts ready early. Schedule them, set reminders, and don’t be afraid to repurpose older posts with a fresh spin. Readers love a good throwback with updated tips or insights.

Giving Yourself Grace

The truth is, no one’s perfect—and some weeks, things will slip through the cracks. The key is not to give up completely. If you miss a post, jump right back in the next week. What matters most is the commitment to show up again and again, even when life gets noisy.

And remember: the holidays are about connection. If you’re struggling to write long-form posts, try shorter updates, quick reflections, or photo-based content. Your audience will appreciate the authenticity far more than a forced article written at midnight.

Looking Ahead

As I move through November, I’m keeping my goals simple: stay present, stay grateful, and keep creating. The consistency I build now will carry me into the new year feeling confident instead of overwhelmed.

So, if you’re reading this and feeling the same holiday crunch, know you’re not alone. Slow and steady still counts. Every word written, every post published—it all adds up. Let’s finish this year strong, one post at a time.

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.

History of Bobbing for Apples (and Its Spooky Roots)

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Bobbing for apples

Few fall traditions feel as classic as bobbing for apples — that splash of laughter, chilly water, and shiny red fruit floating in a wooden tub. But beneath this wholesome game lies a strange mix of romance, fortune-telling, and superstition that goes back centuries.

From Ancient Harvest Rituals

The roots of bobbing for apples reach all the way back to ancient Celtic and Roman traditions. When the Romans conquered Britain, they brought with them a harvest festival honoring Pomona, the goddess of fruit and trees. Her symbol was — you guessed it — the apple.

Over time, Celtic Samhain celebrations (the holiday that inspired Halloween) mixed with Pomona’s harvest customs. Apples became symbols of fertility, love, and life after death. It wasn’t long before people started using them in games and fortune-telling rituals.

The Love Game

In the 17th and 18th centuries, bobbing for apples wasn’t just a kids’ activity. It was a romantic divination game for young adults. Each apple in the tub represented a potential suitor. If a girl could bite into one on her first try, it meant she’d marry that person. A second or third attempt predicted a rockier road to love. It was lighthearted fun, but many people believed the results revealed their romantic fate.

From Parlor Game to Halloween Classic

As time passed, apple bobbing lost its romantic meaning and became a common party game, especially during fall harvest celebrations in the U.S. By the early 1900s, it was a Halloween staple — a simple, safe way to bring friends and families together for some messy fun.

A Splash of Spookiness

Even though it’s playful today, bobbing for apples still carries a hint of mystery. Apples have long been tied to the supernatural — from the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden to the idea that slicing one open on Halloween night could reveal your future lover’s initials. The water, too, symbolizes the barrier between the living and the spirit world in old folklore. So that innocent tub of apples? It’s got centuries of magic and myth swirling around in it.

Why We Still Love It

In an era of haunted houses and high-tech scares, there’s something charming about a game so simple and traditional. Bobbing for apples connects us to old harvest festivals, early Halloween traditions, and that shared excitement of fall gatherings.

So next time you see a tub of apples at a festival or fall fair, remember — you’re taking part in a tradition that’s been around for over two thousand years. And maybe, just maybe, there’s still a little magic floating in that water.

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.