Most of us associate October 31st with witches, spells, potions and curses. But it’s not just a day to celebrate magic of the supernatural kind. Halloween happens to coincide with World Magic Day, an annual celebration of illusions, tricks and sleights of hand. And whilst you may not know how to pull a rabbit from a hat, or saw a glamorous assistant in half, there are plenty of ways you can get involved in World Magic Day this year.
Origins of Magic Day
No doubt you’ve heard the name Harry Houdini. Often regarded as the greatest magician who ever lived, he wowed audiences across Europe and America with daredevil stunts and illusions. Perhaps his most famous trick was his Buried Alive Stunt, which involved him escaping from a casket buried six feet underground.
Houdini ruled as president of the Society of American Magicians (S.A.M.) from 1917 until he died on October 31st in 1926. For several years, his widow and other S.A.M. members marked the anniversary of his death with an unofficial ‘Houdini Day’. However, in 1938, the magician Les Shotly requested and received Mrs Houdini’s permission to turn October 31st into World Magic Day, to officially honour her late husband.
How to celebrate
Originally, Magic Day was marked with a few free magic shows for the less fortunate at libraries and hospitals. But you’ll now find plenty of ways to get involved. In fact, to promote their collection of magic-themed slots, the online casino bgo.com have created a list of the 5 best ways to celebrate World Magic Day this year. You can check it out below.
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