In ancient times, people left food out for the spirits, and arranged chairs so that they could rest. In time, this tradition evolved such that people masqueraded as departed spirits and went from door to door, begging for treats. Ducking for Apples Place a dime in one apple, a ring in another and a button in the third. These denote fortune, marriage and single blessedness. Mix these apples in a large tub with as many others as will fit.
Players try without the use of hands to secure an apple in their mouth.
Everyone must then pare their apples, trying not to break the paring strip. The apple paring is thrown over the left shoulder and is then said to form the first initial of the parer's life's mate. Secret Messages Stuff large, halved English walnuts with fortunes written in lemon juice, which will become visible when held over a candle. The boats are made of the empty shells from the English walnuts. In each is fastened a short piece of brightly colored candle, along with the name of someone at the party.