Halloween, celebrated annually on 31st October, is one of the world’s oldest holidays. Even though it’s derived from ancient festivals and religious rituals, Halloween is still widely celebrated today.
When we think of Halloween, there’s a high chance we’re thinking about the American version of the holiday: costumes, trick-or-treating, jack-o’-lanterns and fun-sized candy bars. But of course, that’s not the only way to celebrate. Here are some of the fun ways people celebrate Halloween around the world…
Ireland
- Dublin hosts a Samhain parade every year, where people wear costumes and masks to avoid harm from evil spirits
- Usually features a bonfire and communication with the dead
- Colcannon (mashed potatoes mixed with kale/cabbage) and barmbrack (sweet bread with dried fruit) are the traditional foods
- Barmbrack is used for fortune-telling: charms are added to the loaf and your fortune for the next year depends on the charm found
Italy
- People celebrate the modern, imported celebration of ‘Halloween’ alongside the older, traditional ‘Ognissanti’ festivals
- Tradition holds that the souls of the deceased come back to visit their living relatives
- People decorate cemeteries with fallen chrysanthemums
- Food is left out for visiting spirits
Mexico
- El Día de Los Muertos, the Day of the Dead, is a 2 day celebration of ancestors and deceased family members
- The spirits of the dead come back to visit their families, and the living will celebrate them with flowers, festivals, sweets and images of intricately decorated skulls and skeletons
- Picnics are held that celebrate life, both past and present
Japan
- Halloween is mainly celebrated by adults in Japan
- No trick-or-treating, but a lot of cosplay and parties are held
- The most prestigious event in Japan is the Kawasaki Halloween Parade, featuring around 4,000 costumed revellers
- Participants must apply at least 2 months in advance to join festivals!
Sienna, Head Girl
Photo Credit: Andy Crawford/ Dorling Kindersley / Universal Images GroupRights Managed / For Education Use Only
