Five Things You Need To Know Today, October 31

Happy Halloween! The holiday is thought to have originated with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off roaming ghosts. In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as a time to honor all saints and martyrs; the holiday, All Saints’ Day, incorporated some of the traditions of Samhain. The evening before was known as All Hallows’ Eve and later Halloween. Over time, Halloween evolved into a secular, community-based event characterized by child-friendly activities such as trick-or-treating. (history.com)

Back to Normal: Cleanup and power restoration from Hurricane Sandy is still in the works, but Coventry Public Schools are back in session today, as well as all town offices and departments. Trash regularly picked up Monday-Wednesday will have a two-day delay. Trash regularly picked up Thursday-Friday will have a one-day delay.

School Bond Presentation: The School Department's presentation on the upcoming school improvement bonds has been rescheduled from last night to tomorrow, Nov. 1 at 6 p.m. at Coventry High School. A PTSA meeting will follow at 7 p.m. Click here for more information.

Patch Halloween Contests: Do you or your kids have an awesome Halloween costume or decorated pumpkin this year?  Click here to win a gift card for your creative pumpkin design! Tomorrow is the last day to enter both contests!

Plan Ahead - Coventry's Got Talent: The Coventry's Got Talent Finals will take place on Nov. 2 at 7 p.m. at Cornerstone of Faith Methodist Church (1081 Main St.) Cheer your favorite performer on while they compete for the top spot! Click here for more information.

To find more things to do today, check out our event listings.