Best Places To Celebrate Halloween Around The World – As we look forward to the Halloween season, we thought we’d help with your next new theme – The Best Places to Go for Halloween.. So, turn off the lights, grab yourself a cozy blanket and get ready to take a tour around the world with these ideas for the scariest and creepiest destinations to celebrate Halloween.
Why We Celebrate Halloween:
Halloween is a holiday celebrated each year on October 31. The tradition originated with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts. In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as a time to honor all saints.
Soon, 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 day of activities like trick-or-treating, carving jack-o-lanterns, festive gatherings, donning costumes and eating treats.
Places To Visit For Halloween:
- Ireland
- Scotland
- Romania
- London, England
- New Orleans – USA
- Mexico
- New York City
- Salem Massachusetts- USA
- Prague, the Czech Republic
- Ottawa – Canada
Places to go for Halloween:
Ireland:
Many traditional Halloween customs and traditions are observed in Ireland. People carve turnips or pumpkins into jack-o’-lanterns and place them in windows or doorways to ward off evil spirits. Bonfires are lit, and fireworks are set off in some areas. People also enjoy traditional foods like barmbrack (a fruitcake) with hidden objects symbolizing the future of those who find them.
Trick-or-treating has become popular in Ireland, especially in urban areas. Children dress up in costumes and go from door to door, saying “Trick or treat!” and receiving candy or other treats. It’s a fun activity for kids and a way for communities to come together.
Many towns and cities in Ireland organize Halloween-themed events and festivals. These can include parades, haunted houses, storytelling sessions, fireworks displays, and costume contests. Some historical sites may also offer special Halloween tours or ghost walks, showcasing Ireland’s rich folklore and spooky legends.
Ireland has a rich tradition of folklore and supernatural beliefs, which are often associated with Halloween. Stories of fairies, ghosts, and other mythical creatures are shared, and some people believe that the spirits of the dead roam the Earth on Halloween night.
Scotland:
Halloween, known as “Samhain” in Scottish Gaelic, is also widely celebrated in Scotland.
In Scotland, Halloween is often associated with the Samhain Festival, which marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. It is a time when the veil between the worlds of the living and the dead is believed to be thinnest, allowing spirits to cross over. This ancient Celtic festival is still honored by many in Scotland.
Lighting bonfires is a common tradition during Halloween in Scotland. These bonfires harken back to ancient Celtic rituals, where the flames were believed to have protective powers and ward off evil spirits.
Guising is a popular Halloween tradition in Scotland, similar to trick-or-treating. Children dress up in costumes and go door to door, performing a song, reciting a poem, or telling a joke in exchange for treats. They often carry lanterns made from scooped-out turnips, known as “neeps,” which are similar to jack-o’-lanterns.
People might play traditional games, such as apple bobbing, where apples are placed in a basin of water, and participants try to catch them with their mouths. It is believed that the first person to bite into an apple would be the next to marry.
In Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, a unique event called the Samhuinn Fire Festival takes place on or around Halloween. It is a modern interpretation of the ancient Samhain festival, featuring a spectacular procession with performers, fire displays, drumming, and storytelling.
Romania:
Romania has a long-standing tradition of celebrating the holiday known as “All Saints’ Day” or “Ziua Tuturor Sfinților” on November 1st. It is a day to honor and remember the deceased loved ones. The customs and rituals associated with All Saints’ Day have influenced the way Halloween is celebrated in Romania.
Pălincă and Colivă:
In rural areas of Romania, people visit the graves of their loved ones on All Saints’ Day. They clean and decorate the tombstones with flowers and candles. It is customary to bring offerings such as pălincă (a traditional fruit brandy) and colivă (a sweet wheat dish) to the graves as a way of honoring the deceased.
Some areas in Romania, particularly Transylvania, have capitalized on their connections to the Dracula legend and offer Halloween-themed events and tours. Visitors can explore places associated with Vlad the Impaler, the historical figure who inspired the Dracula character. These tours may include visits to castles, vampire-themed attractions, and reenactments of famous scenes.
In urban areas, Halloween parties and costume events have become increasingly popular, especially among younger generations. People dress up in costumes, often with spooky or supernatural themes, and attend parties or events with friends. Nightclubs, bars, and restaurants may also organize Halloween-themed parties or offer special menus for the occasion.
London, England:
London hosts several Halloween parades and carnivals, showcasing vibrant costumes, floats, and performances. One notable event is the Greenwich Halloween Parade, which features a procession of ghoulish characters and culminates in a spectacular fireworks display. These parades provide a family-friendly atmosphere and a chance for everyone to join in the Halloween fun.
London has a thriving film scene, and during Halloween, many cinemas and outdoor venues screen classic horror movies or Halloween-themed films. These screenings allow film enthusiasts to enjoy spooky favorites in a unique atmosphere, sometimes with added live performances or themed food and drinks.
London is known for its lively nightlife scene, and Halloween is no exception. Many clubs, bars, and venues host Halloween-themed parties and events. These parties often feature costume contests, live music, DJs, and spooky decorations. From underground clubs to grand venues, there are options for all tastes and ages.
New Orleans – USA:
Halloween in New Orleans is a one-of-a-kind experience, deeply rooted in the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and mystical traditions.
New Orleans is famous for its above-ground cemeteries, also known as “Cities of the Dead.” During Halloween, visitors can take guided ghost tours that delve into the city’s haunted past.
Voodoo Fest:
The Voodoo Music + Arts Experience is an annual music festival held in New Orleans during Halloween weekend. This multi-day event features renowned musicians, art installations, food vendors, and more. It’s a celebration of music and culture that coincides with the Halloween festivities in the city.
Krewe of Boo:
The Krewe of Boo is a Halloween parade that takes place in the French Quarter of New Orleans. This family-friendly event features intricately designed floats, marching bands, and costumed participants who toss candy and trinkets to the crowd. It’s a festive and lively celebration that attracts locals and tourists alike.
Halloween Parties and Masquerade Balls: New Orleans is famous for its parties and celebrations, and Halloween is no exception. Many bars, clubs, and venues host Halloween parties and masquerade balls. These events often feature live music, DJs, costume contests, and themed drinks. The city comes alive with revelers embracing the spirit of Halloween.
Mexico:
In Mexico, Halloween is celebrated alongside the traditional holiday of Día de los Muertos, also known as the Day of the Dead.
Día de los Muertos:
Día de los Muertos is a vibrant and colorful holiday that honors deceased loved ones. It takes place on November 1st and 2nd, coinciding with the Catholic All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. During this time, families create elaborate altars called “ofrendas” in their homes or at the gravesites of their departed relatives. These ofrendas are adorned with photographs, favorite foods, marigold flowers, candles, and other offerings to welcome and remember the spirits of the deceased.
Calacas and Calaveras:
Skeletons, known as “calacas,” and skull-shaped representations, called “calaveras,” are iconic symbols of Día de los Muertos. These figures are often depicted in vibrant colors and playful poses. People paint their faces to resemble skulls, and elaborate costumes are worn during parades and celebrations. The imagery represents the belief that death is a natural part of life and is meant to be celebrated rather than feared.
Halloween has also gained popularity in certain regions of Mexico, particularly among younger generations and in urban areas. Children may dress up in costumes and go trick-or-treating, visiting homes or participating in community events to collect candy and treats. Some businesses and neighborhoods also decorate with spooky themes, and costume parties and events are held.
New York City:
Halloween in New York City is a festive and lively celebration, with a range of activities and events taking place throughout the city.
Rooftop Costume Parties: New York City is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, and Halloween is no exception. Many rooftop bars and clubs in the city host costume parties with DJs, live music, and spectacular views of the city skyline. These parties often have costume contests, themed cocktails, and a lively atmosphere.
Central Park Pumpkin Flotilla:
The Central Park Pumpkin Flotilla is a unique Halloween event where carved pumpkins are set afloat on the Harlem Meer lake. The event includes live music, pumpkin carving demonstrations, and a costume parade. It’s a family-friendly activity that allows both children and adults to enjoy the Halloween festivities in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Halloween-themed Events and Performances: Various venues and cultural institutions in New York City organize Halloween-themed events and performances. These may include spooky theater productions, film screenings, art exhibitions, or themed parties. It’s worth checking event listings and the schedules of museums, theaters, and cultural centers for Halloween-related programming.
Salem Massachusetts- USA:
Halloween in Salem, Massachusetts is a truly unique and iconic experience. Known for its historical association with the Salem witch trials of 1692, the city embraces its bewitching past during the Halloween season.
Witch Trials Memorial:
The Witch Trials Memorial is a solemn and contemplative place in Salem that honors the victims of the witch trials. It serves as a reminder of the tragic events that occurred in the city’s past. Visitors can pay their respects and reflect upon the consequences of fear, ignorance, and injustice.
Salem Witch Village:
The Salem Witch Village is a popular attraction that offers visitors an immersive experience into the world of witchcraft. It features exhibits on spellcasting, potion-making, and the history of witchcraft. It provides insight into different aspects of witchcraft and the role it plays in modern culture.
Witchcraft-themed Shops and Galleries: Salem is home to numerous witchcraft-themed shops, boutiques, and galleries. Here, you can find witchcraft supplies, spellbooks, unique artwork, and handmade crafts. It’s an opportunity to explore the world of modern witchcraft and bring home a piece of Salem’s magical ambiance.
Costume Parades and Contests: Salem embraces the Halloween spirit with costume parades and contests. Visitors can participate in or observe these parades, where people dress up in elaborate costumes and compete for prizes. It’s a festive and lively celebration of creativity and self-expression.
Prague, the Czech Republic:
Halloween in Prague, Czech Republic, has become increasingly popular in recent years, with various events and activities catering to the Halloween spirit.
Prague is one of the most spectacular Gothic cities in Europe. Its stunning medieval architecture and winding lanes also give it a mysterious and slightly macabre allure. The town is filled with ghoulish local legends, haunted cemeteries, and even a Torture Museum, for fans of the scarier aspects of Halloween. Though the Czech Republic doesn’t traditionally celebrate Halloween in a big way, you can always find an exciting way to celebrate Halloween in Prague.
You’re interested in attending parties, exploring haunted locations, or simply embracing the festive atmosphere, you can find a range of Halloween-themed activities and events to make your stay in Prague during this time of year memorable.
Ottawa – Canada:
Halloween in Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, is a lively and festive celebration with a range of activities and events.
Trick-or-Treating:
Trick-or-treating is a popular tradition in Ottawa, where children dress up in costumes and go door-to-door in their neighborhoods to collect candy and treats. Many residential areas in Ottawa embrace the Halloween spirit, with decorated houses and welcoming residents ready to distribute goodies to trick-or-treaters.
Haunted Walks:
Ottawa is known for its haunted history, and taking a haunted walk is a thrilling way to explore the city’s spooky past. Organizations like Haunted Walks of Ottawa offer guided tours that take you to haunted sites, share chilling tales of ghosts and paranormal activities, and provide insights into the city’s eerie legends and history.
Pumpkinferno:
Each year during the Halloween season, Upper Canada Village, located near Ottawa, hosts Pumpkinferno. It’s a mesmerizing outdoor exhibit featuring thousands of illuminated pumpkins creatively carved into various designs and scenes. Visitors can stroll along the paths and enjoy the magical ambiance created by the glowing pumpkins.
Parliament Hill Light Show: On Halloween night, Parliament Hill, the iconic seat of Canada’s government, is transformed into a mesmerizing light and sound show. The show features a Halloween-themed projection that illuminates the Parliament Buildings and creates a stunning visual display for spectators.
Halloween is a widely celebrated holiday with a rich history and cultural significance. Going out allows people to actively participate in the traditions associated with Halloween, such as trick-or-treating, attending parties, or joining parades. It’s a chance to connect with the community, embrace the holiday spirit, and create lasting memories.
People find it enjoyable and engaging. It offers an opportunity to embrace the holiday spirit, engage in festive activities, and connect with others who share a love for Halloween.
Village Halloween Parade in New York, N.Y.
St. Helens, Oregon
Wilmington, North Carolina.
On the night of October 31 they celebrated Samhain, when it was believed that the ghosts of the dead returned to earth.
