1. Halloween Originated from an Ancient Celtic Festival: Halloween, which is celebrated on October 31 every year, has its origins in an ancient Celtic festival known as Samhain. The Celts celebrated their new year on November 1 and believed that the boundary between the living and the dead was blurred on the night before their new year. To protect themselves from evil spirits, they would light bonfires and wear costumes.

2. The Battle of Red Bank Occurred on October 31, 1777: The Battle of Red Bank was a Revolutionary War battle that occurred on October 31, 1777, in Red Bank, New Jersey. The battle was fought between the British and the Continental Army, and resulted in a Continental Army victory. The victory prevented the British from taking over Philadelphia.

3. The First Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Was Held on October 31, 1924: The first Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade was held on October 31, 1924, in New York City. The parade was originally called the Macy's Christmas Parade, but was renamed to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in later years. The parade features floats, balloons, and performances, and is watched by millions of people every year.

4. The Great Atlantic Hurricane Hit New Jersey on October 31, 1944: The Great Atlantic Hurricane was a Category 2 hurricane that hit the East Coast of the United States, including New Jersey, on October 31, 1944. The hurricane caused significant damage, with tidal surges of up to 10 feet in some areas. The storm caused over 300 deaths and $100 million in damage.

5. Governor Christie Cancelled Halloween Due to Hurricane Sandy in 2012: In 2012, Hurricane Sandy hit New Jersey on October 29 and caused widespread damage throughout the state. As a result, Governor Chris Christie issued an executive order cancelling Halloween celebrations in the state for safety reasons. Many communities still held alternative celebrations and trick-or-treating events after the storm had passed.