People would celebrate the end of the harvest season and mark the arrival of winter—a time when death loomed large—with bonfires and scary costumes to frighten away spirits from the underworld. COURTESY
There’s more to Halloween than wearing a costume (or making your dog wear one) and trick or treaters. Halloween (also known as All Hallows' Eve and All Saints' Eve) actually dates back over a thousand years to the ancient Celtic harvest festival of Samhain. People would celebrate the end of the harvest season and mark the arrival of winter—a time when death loomed large—with bonfires and scary costumes to frighten away spirits from the underworld. Here are eight of the best otherworldly festivals from around the globe that are sure to get you into the Halloween spirit.
Derry Halloween, Derry, Northern Ireland
Said to be one of the largest Halloween festivals in the world (and certainly Europe’s biggest) this spooktacular runs over and incredible eight days. More than 100,000 visitors come to see over 1,400 performers take part in parades, fireworks, music, markets and more. Even Derry’s famed 400-year-old fortified walls won’t protect you when the division between this world and the afterlife thin and the spirits of the dead overrun the town. Hands-down this is THE place to be on Halloween.
Day Of The Dead, Mexico
Held throughout Mexico, this sacred festival (also known as Día de los Muertos) is based on love and reverence rather than fear. It’s about honoring deceased loved ones and paying homage to their memories all while celebrating the joy of being alive. The iconic colorful skulls and skeletons are universally recognizable. So special is the Day of the Dead that UNESCO recognized the remarkable holiday as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Glastonbury Dragons' Samhain Wild Hunt Festival, Glastonbury, UK
What better way to connect with ghosts and goblins than by immersing yourself in the original Halloween festival? Pagans believed that Samhain was an important time of year as it was when the separation between the world of the living and the world of the dead was at its weakest and restless dead spirits could walk the earth. This festival is filled with an incredible parade (complete with dragons!), fascinating pagan rituals and creative costumes.
Haunted Happenings Grand Parade, Salem, MA
Infamous for its witch trials, it’s no wonder Salem is one of the best cities in the world to celebrate Halloween. And boy, do they take it seriously; the town puts on a whole month’s worth of scary celebrations, which start off with the one-of-a-kind parade. Events that run throughout the month of October include a Ghosts & Legends Trolley tour, a Salem Psychic Fair and Witches’ Market, special family kid-centric events and more.
Pumpkinferno, Ottawa, Ontario
Pumpkins and fire: was there ever a better combination? Held in Canada’s capital city, this award-winning event is one of the country’s most popular Halloween festivals. Half art installation, half Halloween party, this event features 7,000 handcrafted pumpkins all aglow along a promenade that runs for over half a mile. You won’t believe what they can do with pumpkins; expect to see dogs, dragons, astronauts, cars and trees all made from the beloved orange gourd.
Village Halloween Parade, New York, NY
This really is a festival for everyone. Anyone wearing a costume is invited to join in the fun at this lighthearted Halloween celebration. In its 46 year, the festivities feature puppet-making workshops, costume contests, music and more. It’s pretty much the most joyous and inclusive Halloween party around.
The Voodoo Music + Arts Experience, New Orleans, LA
Who doesn’t get a chill down their back at the mention of Voodoo? Well, consider this festival the fun side of the ancient, mysterious religion. Enjoy music, art installations, food, a walk-thru haunted house and more. It’s for everyone who appreciates a good scare as much as they appreciate good music.
Kawasaki Halloween Parade, Tokyo
If you’re looking for an excuse to go to Japan, look no further than the Kawasaki Halloween Parade. Why not see how they celebrate the fearsome holiday in Japan with this colorful festival that’s been running for over 20 years? There are costume contests and lots of family-friendly events.
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