Mental Floss

FACTS

Carving pumpkins is one of the most famous Halloween traditions.

Love Halloween costumes and spooky decorations? Let’s dig a little deeper and learn the creepy stories behind the holiday's traditions, from carving pumpkins to munching on candy corn.

the mag








The pattern is named after the European dance craze, but what exactly the dots have to do with polka is a bit of a mystery.

Shaunacy Ferro








The beloved star of 'Game of Thrones,' 'The Mandalorian,' and 'The Last of Us' can't handle hearing Prince's "Purple Rain" because it moves him "so deeply."

Garin Pirnia
The media mogul born ‘Orpah’ Winfrey has made quite a name for herself over the years.

Since making her national TV debut with ‘The Oprah Winfrey Show,’ Oprah has become a global icon. Discover more fascinating facts about her life here.

Rudie Obias








Kevin Costner stars in 'Yellowstone.'

Though 'Yellowstone' wasn't an immediate hit, the modern-day Western has since become one of the most popular shows on TV—and is turning into a bona fide franchise.

Garin Pirnia
A self-portrait of Junji Ito with a cat.

From his first encounters with manga to his diverse range of artistic influences, here are a few things you might not know about the reigning king of horror manga.  

April Snellings

The menu is a restaurant staple nowadays, but they haven't always been a part of dining out. From the Song dynasty in China to the first inns and taverns of France, the path toward the humble menu is a long and winding journey.

Michele Debczak