Halloween, a festival that has its origins in ancient pagan practices, has been embraced and reinvented across cultures and continents. If you’re planning to move internationally with John Mason International Movers, or if you’re just curious, here’s a glimpse into how Halloween is celebrated around the globe.
1. USA & Canada: Trick-or-Treat! In North America, Halloween is a major event. Children, dressed in a variety of costumes, go from house to house, asking “Trick or Treat?”. Homes are adorned with pumpkins, spiders, and eerie decorations. Families gather to carve pumpkins into ‘Jack-O’-Lanterns’ and haunted house tours become popular attractions.
2. Mexico: Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) While not strictly Halloween, the Day of the Dead is a unique Mexican celebration that honors deceased loved ones. From October 31 to November 2, families create vibrant altars decorated with photographs, candles, and marigolds. Sugar skulls and Pan de Muerto (a sweet bread) are also integral to the festivities.
3. Ireland: The Birthplace of Halloween Samhain, an ancient Celtic festival, is considered the predecessor of Halloween. Today, Ireland celebrates with bonfires, games, and traditional foods. One popular game involves searching for a ring hidden inside a fruitcake known as barmbrack – finding it is believed to bring marriage within a year.
4. Japan: Kawasaki Halloween Parade Japan doesn’t traditionally celebrate Halloween, but the Western influence has led to the rise of the Kawasaki Halloween Parade. Thousands dress up in intricate costumes and take to the streets of Kawasaki, making it one of the largest Halloween parades globally.
5. Romania: Dracula’s Home in Transylvania The legend of Dracula draws many to Romania around Halloween. Bran Castle, often referred to as Dracula’s Castle, hosts a night-time tour, regaling the tales of Vlad the Impaler, the infamous figure who inspired the Dracula legend.
6. Italy: All Saints’ and All Souls’ Day While Halloween isn’t a traditional holiday, Italians celebrate All Saints’ Day on November 1st and All Souls’ Day on November 2nd. Families leave flowers on the graves of deceased relatives and children receive gifts from their ancestors.
7. Philippines: Pangangaluluwa A tradition reminiscent of trick-or-treating, children go door to door, singing and asking for prayers for souls stuck in purgatory. Recently, more Western Halloween traditions, like costume parties, are becoming popular.
Embracing the Global Spirit
At John Mason International Movers, we understand that moving internationally isn’t just about transporting belongings—it’s about integrating into a new culture. As Halloween shows, there are myriad ways traditions evolve and are celebrated across countries.
So, whether you’re moving to a country with deep-rooted Halloween traditions or to one where it’s just catching on, there’s always an opportunity to partake in the celebrations and make it your own.
Curious about other global festivities and how to adapt to them in your new home? Stay tuned to our blog for more insights on global traditions and moving tips. Happy Halloween and safe travels wherever your journey takes you!
