October: A Month of Change and Reflection
BV Newsroom
By Danielle Schmidt
Fair Oaks, CA - October 23, 2025
When we think about the month of October, we often correlate it with fun Halloween
festivities, pumpkin spice lattes, corn mazes, and fall celebrations. However, October is full of historical events, fun facts, and natural spectacles! It is seen as a time for transformation, change, and preparation as the natural world transitions into Fall, but it also represents abundance and gratitude with the Harvest Season! In this article, we’re going to unpack the symbolic significance of the month of October.
How did October get its name?
We adopted the name “October” from the ancient Roman calendar, which, before they converted to a 12-month system, only had 8 months. Being the eighth month of the ancient Roman year, the name comes from the Latin root octo, meaning eight. Even though many succeeding Roman emperors tried to change the name, October stuck!
Seasonal Markers:
October’s full moon is known as the hunter’s moon and holds a significant meaning in many cultures. It signaled the time to begin hunting in preparation for winter for many tribes. It is known as being exceptionally bright and long in the night sky, allowing hunters to stalk prey with better visibility.
Also in October, the Orionids meteor shower is a magnificent display of bright, fast
“shooting stars”. The shower comes from debris of Halley’s Comet, and normally occurs mid-October. Fun Fact: Halley’s Comet was the first comet in which its return was predicted, a discovery made by Edmond Halley in 1705.
Historical Turning Points:
The launch of Sputnik, October 4th, 1957: The first artificial satellite was launched by the Soviet Union, leading to innovations in science and technology. This was the start of the Space Age, and triggered the Space race between the US and Soviet Union.
The British surrender at the battle of Yorktown, October 19th, 1781: Not only a military success, the Yorktown victory marked the end of the American Revolution and symbolizes the hope and determination of the Continental Army, aided by the French. This event marked the beginning of American independence and the birth of a new nation.
Martin Luther’s Ninety-Five Theses, October 31, 1517: This is the day that Martin Luther is thought to have posted his Ninety-Five Theses, a criticism of the abuse of power and corruption by the Catholic Church. This sparked the Protestant Reformation, changing religion for the course of history.
The Introduction of the Gregorian calendar, October 1852: Pope Gregory XIII introduced the Gregorian calendar (the dating system most currently in use) to the Catholic world. It was still 365 days, but it changed the leap year system to a more accurate version, which modern scientists only had to slightly alter.
Along with many more historical events in October, these moments signified permanent change in our world, whether it was our calendar system or the establishment of our country.
Myths and Folklore:
In cultural folklore, October is correlated with supernatural beings and elements. Now widely celebrated, Halloween actually originated from an ancient Celtic belief that on Samhain (October 31st), the border between the dead and the living became more transparent, and spirits were able to appear in the physical world.
In German culture, the celebration of Oktoberfest is significant. It is known as the world’s largest folk festival, largely associated with beer, music, and feasting. In Japanese folklore, the moon rabbit, or Tsukiusagi, symbolizes longevity and prosperity during the month of October.
Modern Associations:
In today’s world, October is known for many things. Along with Halloween, October is recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, National Bullying Prevention Month, and Filipino American Heritage Month. Here are some more associations that you may or may not know!
• Domestic Violence Awareness Month
• International Walk to School Month
• ADHD Awareness Month
• World Teachers’Day – October 5th
• Indigenous People’s Day – October 13th
• Cybersecurity & Depression Awareness Month
• Fair Trade Month
• National Animal Safety and Protection Month
• Bat Appreciation Month
• National Pizza Month!
• ... and many more
With so much awareness and recognition in October, it demonstrates the significance of October as a month of reflection and growth. Now is the time to raise awareness for many different causes and issues and celebrate some of our favorite foods!
Conclusion
October marks the transition from summer to fall, when trees begin to display vibrant
colors, and nature prepares for winter. As the month continues, it is important to make time for remembrance, personal growth, and gratitude for the abundance that we have around us. October holds great cultural and historical significance for our world today, making it a perfect time to find a way to support a cause and celebrate the changing season!
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