I wonder if these old traditions started out as a way to leave food out for the homeless or destitute during holidays where everyone was supposed to be safe and fed. In some countries there is a tradition of leaving a seat empty at the Christmas table for itinerants and travelers. I traveled a lot through Asia and they leave food and drink out before statues of deities and idols, and I have seen on many occasions the homeless taking the food and eating it, and I doubt anyone would have minded had they seen them do it.

Just a meandering thought...