History
On October 4, 1957, the Soviet Union launched the world's first artificial satellite into orbit, officially starting the Space Race. What was the satellite's name?
Sputnik 1
What legendary comedian, born October 2nd, famously said, "I refuse to join any club that would have me as a member," and starred with his siblings in films like Duck Soup and A Night at the Opera?
Groucho Marx, whose real name was Julius Henry Marx
This novelty song by Bobby "Boris" Pickett & The Crypt-Kickers became "the graveyard smash." It first hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart just in time for Halloween in October 1962. What is the name of this monstrously popular tune? 🧟
"Monster Mash"
The modern Jack-O'-Lantern is carved from a pumpkin, but the tradition originated in Ireland. What root vegetable were the original Jack-O'-Lanterns carved from? 🎃
Turnips
How does a witch know the best time to go trick or treating?
She checks her witch watch.
The famous gunfight involving Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday, took place in Tombstone, Arizona, on October 26, 1881. What was the name of the gunfight and who were their main opponents?
The Gunfight at the OK Corral
The Clanton-McLaury Gang
Born on October 1st, this actress won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her debut film role as a magical nanny in Disney's Mary Poppins (1964). Who is this beloved star of screen and stage?
Julie Andrews
The iconic Marvin Gaye version of this Motown classic was released on October 30, 1968. It was later re-popularized in the the 80's by an animated group called The California Raisins. What is the song?
"I Heard It Through the Grapevine"
The world's largest Oktoberfest, a festival that traditionally ends on the first Sunday in October, is held annually in which German city? 🍺
Munich
What do vampires take to get around on Halloween night?
A blood vessel.
On October 14, 1066, William the Conqueror's Norman army defeated the English forces of King Harold II, leading to the Norman conquest of England. What was the name of this decisive battle?
The Battle of Hastings
This Hungarian-American actor, born October 20th, defined the role of the world's most famous vampire in the 1931 horror classic Dracula, forever associating his face and voice with the character. 🧛♂️ Who was he?
Bela Lugosi
The spooky spoken-word narration in Michael Jackson's Halloween masterpiece "Thriller" was performed by a legendary horror movie actor. Who was the famous voice behind the rap? 🧛
Vincent Price
While Americans celebrate Thanksgiving in November, our neighbors in which country celebrate their Thanksgiving on the second Monday in October? 🍁
Canada
Who did Frankenstein go trick or treating with?
His ghoul friend.
The Cuban Missile Crisis, a 13-day confrontation that brought the world to the brink of nuclear war, began on October 16, 1962. Which two countries were the main adversaries in this standoff?
The United States and the Soviet Union
Known as "The Great Stone Face" for his deadpan expression, this silent film star and director, born October 4th, performed his own dangerous stunts in masterpieces like The General and Steamboat Bill, Jr. Who was he?
Buster Keaton
Originally from a 1920s German play, this song about a suave criminal became a surprise #1 hit for nine straight weeks, including all of October 1959. Who was the charismatic singer who made "Mack the Knife" a worldwide smash?
Bobby Darin
Halloween has its roots in an ancient Celtic festival that marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter, or the "darker half" of the year. What was the name of this festival?
Samhain
What does Bigfoot say when he asks for candy?
"Trick-or-feet!"
On October 24, 1929, a major stock market crash occurred, signaling the start of the Great Depression. What is this day famously known as?
Black Thursday
Born on October 16th, this incredibly versatile actress earned an Oscar nomination for her role in Cold War thriller The Manchurian Candidate. Later she solved mysteries and Jessica Fletcher in Murder She Wrote. Who is this classic actress?
Angela Lansbury
With its spooky psychedelic vibe, Donovan's 1966 classic song about a strange time of year is a staple on many Halloween playlists. What is this song called?
"Season of the Witch"
Beginning on October 31st, this multi-day Mexican holiday celebrates and honors friends and family members who have died. What are the decorated sugar skulls that are a famous symbol of this holiday called? 💀
Calaveras (The holiday is Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead)
What does a turkey dress up as on Halloween?
A goblin.