And the answer: Halloween.
Often known as "Mischief Night," Cabbage Night has been recognized in the American Northeast and parts of New England as early as 1861. The name’s origin refers to children leaving out rotten cabbage as a Hallow’s Eve prank. Other names for the vandalistic holiday include Devil’s Night, Gate Night, and Goosey Night.
Trick-or… trick? Yesterday, October 30th, was Mischief Night! Each year, the holiday is celebrated the night before Halloween as an excuse to play fun, harmless pranks or tricks on family and friends. While it may seem like a recent addition to the suite of Halloween celebrations, Mischief Night actually has origins dating back to England in the 1700s. Legend has it: kids used to play pranks on people the night before May Day in England during the 1700s. In fact, the earliest known reference to “Mischief Night” was recorded in 1790, when a school play endorsed Mischief Night in glowing terms.
Historically, Mischief Night has consisted of anything from switching shop signs and overturning water tubs, to serious vandalism. In fact, some towns discourage extensive mischief by implementing curfews or other safety precautions. Others have even tried to counteract the language used to describe the night, replacing “Mischief Night” with “Angels’ Night,” though we agree that one is a little far-fetched.
Learn more about the history and significance of Mischief Night (in all its various iterations) here.
