As autumn sets in, the air turns crisp and leaves shift to shades of orange and gold.
It’s time for warm sweaters, homemade pumpkin pies and spiced cider– whether you prefer it sweet or with a kick. For many, Halloween is a highlight of the season, celebrated with costumes, decorations and a sense of festivity that crosses all ages.
Yet, Halloween isn’t the same everywhere. It goes by different names, like All Hallows’ Eve, All Saints’ Eve, or Allhalloween. Over the past decade, the traditions have spread across Europe and other parts of the world. Each country adds its unique spin, celebrating life and death in distinct ways.
Austria
In Austria, a unique Pumpkin Festival, Kürbisfest im Retzer Land, takes center stage during the season. It celebrates the harvest with lively events. On November 11, Austrians observe Martini with costumes and lantern processions. Some also hold an old belief that by leaving bread, water, and a lit lamp out, they welcome the spirits of the dead for one night.
Belgium
In Belgium, Halloween is marked by candlelit vigils in some villages. This is where people remember deceased loved ones. Other areas focus more on All Saints’ Day, a time for families to visit graves and pay respects.
Canada
Canada’s Halloween traditions arrived in the 1800s with Scottish and Irish immigrants. Today, October 31 is celebrated with decorations, costume parties, and trick-or-treating, similar to how it’s done in the U.S. Hence, it is a festive occasion enjoyed by people of all ages.
China
China has its own way of marking the dead with festivals like the Hungry Ghost Festival and Qing Ming. Although Halloween has been adopted by some expatriate communities, these ancient traditions, focused on honoring ancestors, remain more culturally significant.
England
In England, the tradition of trick-or-treating began with Mischief Night, where children played pranks in exchange for treats. Instead of pumpkins, English children once carved “punkies” from beets. Although Halloween is growing in popularity, it’s still somewhat overshadowed by Guy Fawkes Night on November 5.
Mexico and Latin America
In Mexico and other parts of Latin America, Día de los Muertos stands out as a unique celebration. Families create altars, called ofrendas, and decorate them with marigolds, candles, and the favorite foods of the deceased. The belief is that the spirits return to visit their families between October 31 and November 2. Rather than being a somber occasion, it’s a joyful celebration of life and death.
Each country has its way of celebrating this season, whether it’s through festive gatherings or quiet moments of remembrance. But across the globe, the message remains the same: honoring the past while celebrating the present.
