Looking for some interesting and unique ways to celebrate Halloween? Here are 25 of the best places to celebrate Halloween around the world.

Halloween, with its quintessential elements of trick-or-treating and dressing in costumes, is often seen as a North American tradition. But actually, it originated in Ireland with ancient Celtic festivals and traditions.

Over the years, these ancient traditions have evolved into modern Halloween celebrations and festivities. Many places throughout the world have their own unique way of celebrating this time of year, from the ancient Celtic rituals of Samhain to modern-day festivals and parades.

Growing up in North America, I’m used to the tradition of dressing up in costume and going trick-or-treating. But after visiting Transylvania in October and getting into the spooky spirit, I decided to add different Halloween celebrations to our bucket list.

To help come up with some unique ideas, I asked fellow travel bloggers for their recommendations. Here are their suggestions on the best places to celebrate Halloween around the world.

Best Places to Celebrate Halloween Around the World

From spooky and festive towns in the United States to more traditional celebrations in Europe, here are the best places to celebrate Halloween around the world.

Salem, Massachusetts

Nestled on the shores of Massachusetts, Salem is a Halloween lover’s dream come true. Known affectionately as “Witch City”, it’s more than just a spooky destination. It’s practically the epicenter of Halloween magic in the US, and a hot spot for modern-day practicing witches.

Salem’s sinister history as the backdrop for the infamous 1692 Salem Witch Trials sets the stage for an unforgettable Halloween experience. The town embraces its eerie reputation and welcomes visitors from all over the world to join in the fun.

grave stones in salem Massachusetts - one of the best places to celebrate halloween around the world

The entire month of October is devoted to celebrating Halloween with its “Haunted Happenings” festival, filled with bewitching events, Salem witch tours and supernatural experiences.

Salem doesn’t hold back when it comes to Halloween. You can expect a wide variety of enchantments like psychic readings and haunted house tours, and you can even join in modern-day spell casting with real witches. There are also numerous witchy shops where you can buy everything from voodoo dolls and incense to crystals and spellbooks.

Salem is perfect for Halloween lovers of all ages. Families can enjoy kid-friendly activities, and even visit numerous filming locations for the Hocus Pocus movie, while adults can delve into the more sinister history behind the city. The streets are filled with fellow Halloween lovers decked out in their most wicked attire, and the entire town is adorned with elaborate decorations.

If you’ve got your heart set on visiting Salem during the Halloween season, be sure to plan ahead and book accommodations early. Halloween is a very busy time of year and things book very quickly. 

Submitted by Rachel of Our Vacationing Life

Sleepy Hollow/Tarrytown

Halloween in Sleepy Hollow is a fiendishly fun affair, with a little something for every witch and wizard in the family!

About an hour north of New York City by car, the picturesque town of Sleepy Hollow inspired America’s most famous ghost story, Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. The small town takes pride in its spooky history and has become one of the best places in the world to celebrate Halloween.

Nestled along the scenic Hudson River in New York, Sleepy Hollow and its small-town neighbour, Tarrytown, beckon families into a land of enchantment filled with an intriguing blend of history, culture, and eerie fun.

carved jack o lantern as a head on a scarecrow in front of a clock in sleepy town New York - one of the best places to celebrate halloween around the world

Every October, these two historic towns break out all the tricks and treats with haunted hayrides through the dark woods, Gothic mansions that seem straight out of a ghostly storybook, and blazing pumpkins that light up the night like fire-breathing dragons. Families can also explore festive farmers markets, where they can sink their fangs into seasonal treats, Halloween parades, and retellings of the classic Legend of Sleepy Hollow tale told by spooktacular actors.

Families who appreciate creepy history might enjoy a brisk walk through the ancient Sleepy Hollow Cemetery. This also is where the famous bridge depicted in The Legend of Sleepy Hollow resides. At the cemetery, keen eyes might even spot the grave of Washington Irving himself. But watch out! It could be haunted!

Submitted by Sckylar Gibby-Brown of Adventuring Dreamers

Transylvania, Romania

What better place is there to celebrate the spooky season than the real-life home of vampires? 

Transylvania is a region in Romania that is home to countless castles that inspired many haunting stories such as the tales of Count Dracula. While Dracula isn’t actually a real person, the character is based on Vlad the Impaler, an infamous Romanian ruler who was known for his cruel and unusual methods of punishment. 

During a Halloween trip to Transylvania, you can spend the evening touring the hallowed halls of Bran Castle (also known as Dracula’s Castle) before partying the night away in the gardens of this iconic destination. 

If you’re staying in the nearby town of Brasov, you will have plenty of opportunities to explore many other attractions in the region. Make sure to hike up Mt. Tampa for an unbeatable view of the region and drop by Corvin Castle, one of the most haunted castles in Romania. 

flags stretching from colourful buildings on one side of the street to the other in Sighisoara, Transylvania

For those who have a little extra time, don’t miss the chance to visit Vlad the Impaler’s childhood home “Casa Vlad Dracul” in Sighisoara. The medieval home has now been converted into a Dracula-themed restaurant where you can also visit his childhood bedroom!

Submitted by Kate Fletcher of Bags-Always-Packed

Mexico City

Mexico City offers a Halloween experience steeped in rich traditions and cultural celebrations unlike any other. While Halloween is celebrated globally with costumes and candies, Mexico City celebrates ancestral Day of the Dead or “Día de los Muertos” festivities, making it a dual event of remembrance and joyous celebration of life.

During the end of October and the beginning of November, the streets come alive with marigold flowers, intricately designed sugar skulls, and altars honouring the departed. The atmosphere is electric, with parades featuring dancers in traditional La Catrina costumes, musicians, and large puppet-like skeletons.

Special activities include visiting the beautifully adorned cemeteries, where families gather to honour their ancestors with food, music, and stories. Markets burst with themed crafts, and bakeries offer “pan de muerto,” a special sweet bread. The main celebration includes a 9 km parade that starts in Zocalo and ends at the Paseo de la Reforma.

day of the dead parade in Mexico City - one of the best places to celebrate halloween around the world

Besides the Halloween festivities, October is a pleasant time to explore Mexico City’s other attractions, like the Frida Kahlo Museum, Chapultepec Park, and the historic downtown area. 

For a laid-back retreat, opt for a CDMX hotel boasting its own pool. After soaking up the city’s cultural events, there’s nothing like a refreshing dip to unwind. Marquis SkySuites, located on the Paseo de la Reforma, is a great pick. 

Submitted by Mal of Let’s Travel To Mexico City

Derry, Ireland

Derry, often referred to as the Halloween capital of the world, hosts the largest Halloween festival in Europe. The city comes alive with Halloween festivities that draw visitors from far and wide and is an experience like no other.

The celebration of Halloween as we know it today originates from ancient Celtic traditions and was first celebrated in Ireland over 2,000 years ago, with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. To celebrate the end of the harvest and the beginning of the Celtic New Year, people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts.

That tradition has evolved over the years, and today, Derry continues to celebrate Halloween with a spectacular four-day festival, known as Derry Halloween. 

There are plenty of events, from ghost tours to spooky story-telling and haunted houses to get you in the festive mood. But the highlight of the festival takes place on Halloween night, with hundreds of elaborately costumed performers taking part in the Halloween Parade, followed by an impressive fireworks display over the river. Its title as the largest Halloween festival in Europe is well-deserved and makes for an unforgettable experience for all.  

acrobats performing at the Derry Halloween festival - this four day festival is the largest in europe and one of the best places to celebrate halloween around the world
Photo by K. Mitch Hodge on Unsplash

Burg Frankenstein, Germany

If you’re seeking spine-tingling chills for Halloween, look no further than Burg Frankenstein in Germany. This legendary castle, perched atop a hill in Darmstadt, has a history dating back to 1252 when the formidable Frankenstein dynasty first took residence and it is the sight where one of the best festivals in Germany unfolds – Halloween.

Burg Frankenstein sets the perfect eerie backdrop for a Halloween experience like no other.  Venturing to Burg Frankenstein during the Halloween season promises thrills and excitement. You will be wandering through a castle adorned with spine-chilling decorations while 99 zombies roam the premises. 

Visitors can indulge in macabre dinners and witness a variety of hair-raising shows featuring witches, monsters, werewolves, and vampires. For the brave souls, a plunge into the dark side of the Middle Ages awaits.  

Perched on a 370-meter-high spur of the Langenberg, Burg Frankenstein offers breathtaking views of the Rhine plain and is surrounded by ancient myths and horror tales, making it the perfect place for Halloween nightmares to come to life.  

Your admission ticket grants unlimited access to all areas of the castle, with self-service stands offering drinks and snacks to keep your courage up.  

What makes this destination even more appealing is its family-friendly atmosphere. Burg Frankenstein transforms the monsters into entertainers, ensuring a Halloween experience suitable for all ages. 

If you’re looking for an unforgettable Halloween adventure filled with thrills, chills, and a touch of history, Burg Frankenstein in Germany is the place to be.

Submitted by Elle of Only in Germany

Edinburgh

Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is one of the best places to celebrate Halloween.

One of the traditions in Scotland, which we’ve all come to associate with Halloween, involved carving scary faces into turnips to create lanterns. These turnip lanterns were believed to ward off ghosts during the witching hours. Today, pumpkins have replaced turnips and become a tradition throughout North America as well. 

Scotlnad’s celebrations of Halloween are based on ancient Celtic traditions. In Edinburgh, the highlight of Halloween is the Samhuinn Fire Festival.

Held on Halloween night, this celebration marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. It’s one of the city’s biggest festivals and is celebrated with an impressive display of fire, acrobatics and drumming. 

Edinburgh’s historic and atmospheric streets, along with its stunning architecture, set the perfect backdrop for Halloween festivities. In addition to the Samhuinn Fire Festival, there are also a variety of events and activities throughout the city, from spooky tours of the ancient underground vaults to haunted castle visits. 

New York City, New York

New York City is not only one of the largest and most iconic cities in the world, but it’s also a top destination for celebrating Halloween. With its rich history, diverse culture and endless entertainment options, New York City offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors during the spooky season. The city is known for its extravagant and over-the-top celebrations, making it an ideal location for a holiday that’s all about dressing up and having fun.

One of the most iconic events in New York City during Halloween is the Village Halloween Parade. This annual parade, which has been running since 1974, features thousands of participants dressed in elaborate costumes as they march through Greenwich Village. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting the city during this time of year.

In addition to the parade, there are also many haunted attractions and spooky tours available throughout the city. From ghost walks through historic neighbourhoods to interactive experiences in abandoned buildings, there’s something for every level of fright-seeker.

Expect to see decorations in every corner of the city, from storefronts and parks to entire neighbourhoods. Many restaurants, bars, and clubs also offer special Halloween-themed menus and events, making it the perfect time to try out some new places.

New York City during Halloween is an excellent choice for anyone who loves the holiday and wants to experience it in a unique way. It’s also an ideal destination for families, as there are many family-friendly events and activities available.

Submitted by Julie of Family Trips and Travels

Soportujar, Spain

Soportujar is a small village in the Alpujarra region in Granada, Southern Spain. It is informally known as the witches’ village.

It is a very unique place because of its superstition. After the battle of the Alpujarras, people from the north of Spain moved to Soportujar, and locals believed they were casting spells and doing other magic-related activities.

It wasn’t long ago when the village decided to launch a project promoting the superstitious past of Soportujar to bring more tourists to the area.

One of the things about this project was to create sculptures of supernatural figures and place them across the town. So now, travellers can see numerous sculptures of witches, dragons, and even the famous Hansel and Gretel house.

statue in soportujar Spain with a witch leaning over a cauldron

With this atmosphere, it seems like Halloween is all year round in Soportujar, but you can also expect fantastic events on Halloween day. The houses and streets are decorated with witchery symbols and fancy dress competitions, among other fun activities.

Overall, Soportujar is a fantastic day trip from Malaga or Granada, especially on this date.

The only thing to be cautious about is the roads to Soportujar and other towns in the region, as most roads are narrow. Also, it is recommended to book accommodation in advance as there aren’t many hotel options in this small village. 

Submitted by Cristina of My Little World of Travelling 

Anoka, USA

Anoka, Minnesota is one of the best places to celebrate Halloween because… why? It’s the Halloween capital of the world!

It all began in 1920, when Anoka teachers, parents, and community members decided to have a big event to divert its youngsters from Halloween pranks. They decided on a costume parade and block party, and thousands of kids marched in that first parade, wearing homemade costumes while thousands watched.

It was such a success that celebrations have continued every year since (except for 1942 and 1943 due to World War 2). In 1937, a 12-year-old wore a sweater with Halloween Capital insignia in Washington, D.C., and it was proclaimed the Halloween Capital of the World.

Over the years, festivities continued growing to include fireworks, royalty coronations, dances, house decorating contests and so much more.

Today, events take place throughout the month of October and draw people from all over the world. The Grande Day Parade draws so many spectators that people start arriving at 4:00 am to reserve a space for the 1:00 pm event. 

You’ll also find walking ghost tours, a children’s costume contest, a Spooktacular carnival, a Light Up the Night Parade, a movie night, and many other community events.

Anoka, Minnesota is located just north of Minneapolis and St. Paul and is 30 minutes from the Mall of America, where you’ll find much more Halloween fun including “Nickelodeon Booniverse” at its indoor theme park, Nickelodeon Universe.

Submitted by Lisa Stockert of TwinCitiesFrugalMom.com

London, England

Halloween celebrations have become more and more popular over the last decade or so in London. Being a cosmopolitan city, there is no surprise there are tons of fun and quirky things to do over the Halloween period.

Pumpkin picking may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about London but there are quite a few farms in the Greater London area to enjoy the Fall festivities. 

Cammas Hall Farm has a fun corn maze as well as pumpkin picking, not to mention a haunted walkway full of spooky characters. Visitors are encouraged to dress up in Halloween outfits with a 20% discount offer. 

Aside from pumpkin picking there are Halloween-themed raves for families in October each year. They are specifically tailored towards younger children with so many fun activities and a chance to dress up. Parents love the old school music from their youth so it’s usually a hit with the whole family. 

Most of the museums and major attractions equally celebrate Halloween, however, London Dungeons are ideal for teens and adults looking for the ultimate spooky experience. There is also an old Black Routemaster bus that does spooky tours of the city which is perfect for tourists.

black route master bus driving on the road in London England - ghost story tour is a great way to celebrate halloween

Afternoon tea is a quintessentially British experience not to be missed in London. There are quite a few places to enjoy a spook afternoon tea. The Wands & Wizard Exploratorium is one of the best. Prepare to make potions, brew spooky teas and feast on treats. The experience is perfect for adults or children. 

Overall Halloween in London has so many fun and diverse experiences for both adults and families, tourists or locals!

Submitted by Karen of Travel Mad Mum

Black Hills of South Dakota

One of the best places to celebrate Halloween is in the Black Hills of South Dakota! It’s not a destination you normally would think of for fall festivities, but there are so many things to do in South Dakota in the fall, and this area is actually brimming with autumnal celebrations.

Scattered around the forests of granite hills and deciduous forests are small towns that each have their own seasonal celebrations. Here, you can expect small local communities that come together every year and share the year’s bounty in food, crafts, activities, and music!

Huron, South Dakota hosts a good ole classic Halloween festival – all-inclusive of face-painting, costume contests, and a pumpkin patch. The festival in Yankton hosts a Halloween market with a ghost walk, pig races, and hay bale mazes. Finally, small towns like Brandon, Webster, and Prairie Village all have their harvest celebrations too, so you can try great food and enjoy the season.

the hills of South Dakota in the fall with some trees turning orange

Come with lots of cash, so you can partake in that delicious caramel apple and buy that homemade scarf!

This area is best visited by families with kids. There is so much for each age group to do, that everyone is guaranteed to have a good time!

Submitted by Emily of The Mandagies

York, England

York in England is one of the most haunted cities in the world. Known as the ‘city of a thousand ghosts’, it’s a spooky destination all year round. But if you want a real treat, be sure to visit the medieval streets and narrow ‘snickelways’ at Halloween.

York Ghost Week takes place every October. Throughout the week there are many activities available including kids crafts and a ghost hunt for collectible ghost figurines. Plus, many of the historic buildings throw open their doors for eerie candle-lit evenings of ghost stories.

view of castle at night in York England

If you are looking for more of a fright, don’t miss the annual Hallowscream event at York Maze. This terrifying event features haunted houses and live actors designed to scare you out of your wits! They also offer a Hallowtween event for younger visitors looking for a thrill.

York also has several ghost-themed activities year-round, but you especially don’t want to miss them when you visit in October! One of the best ways to learn about the haunting history of the city is on a York ghost walk. Follow your guide around the sights of the city at dusk and hear stories of the specres that have never left.

Plus, if you want to take a little piece of York home, visit York Ghost Merchants. Located on the iconic topsy-turvy street, The Shambles, York Ghost Merchants hand craft unique ghost figures that make the best York souvenirs. The ghosts are in high demand though, so you may need to queue!

Submitted by Hannah of Get Lost Travel Blog

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is not the first place that springs to mind when you think about Halloween. However, with a large number of expat residents, pretty much every international festivity is celebrated in style. 

There are all types of celebrations that take place across the Emirate. From elaborate brunches to outdoor spooky theatre & activities festivals, there is something for every age.

However, an Abu Dhabi Halloween brunch is a ‘must do’ if you are visiting the capital. Brunch is not a weekend late-morning affair in the Emirates. It’s usually an elaborate buffet in the afternoon or evening, with live entertainment in one of the swanky hotels. 

Each Halloween, several hotels don all of the spooky decorations, encourage guests to put on their costumes and serve up spooky food, with the dessert counter being the most impressive. Sofitel on the Corniche is one to consider as they also have entertainment for the kids and plenty of spooky crafts to keep them busy. 

world of spooks in abu Dhabi - one of the places to celebrate halloween around the world

Another must-do Halloween activity in Abu Dhabi is visiting Al Maryah Island, where each year a stage and many spooky huts are set up. A full production of spooky theatre is put on over the weekend nearest to Halloween. Featuring ghoulish characters performing Thriller and Adams Family tributes, it’s an event for the whole family. 

The huts at the festival also provide activities for kids, from creepy slime-making to festive face painting. 

So if you are considering travelling to the Middle East but worried you may miss out on Halloween festivities, Abu Dhabi is the place to go!

Submitted by Andy from Secret Abu Dhabi

Paris, France

Paris, the capital of France, is a great place to celebrate Halloween because several Halloween events and tours take place in the city. 

For example, from October 1st to November 5th, the Disney Halloween Festival takes place at Disneyland Paris. During this festival, the park is decorated with pumpkins, ghosts, and all kinds of other Halloween decorations. In addition to that, there are special events related to Disney villains at the park. 

Le Manoir de Paris is another highlight of the city to visit for Halloween. This is an interactive walk-through haunted house that is located inside a former ceramics workshop in Paris’ 10th arrondissement. 

Besides that, many Halloween parties take place throughout the city. For example, there is a large Halloween party at the Bridge Club. 

The Paris Dark City Secrets Walking Tour is a great 2-hour guided tour for Halloween in Paris as you can learn about the dark side of Paris. The tour includes learning about Parisian ghosts, visiting cursed locations, and seeing where public executions took place. 

Old catacombs. Tunnels, walls made of bones and skulls

Doing a tour of the Catacombs of Paris, an underground ossuary where the remains of more than 6 million people are found, is another activity that you can do during October. 

Submitted by Daniel of North Carolina Travel Guides

Vilnius, Lithuania

Vilnius, Lithuania is a great place to visit for Halloween. This capital city is home to a small and unique neighbourhood called Uzupis, where Halloween traditions come alive.

Once considered a seedy, dilapidated area, Uzupis has rebranded itself as a “republic” for artists, bohemians, and free thinkers. As you walk around the neighbourhood, you will come across unique breweries and cafes, as well as quirky art studios, galleries, and murals. There is much more to explore here than meets the eye– especially during October.

Easily one of the most interesting facts about Lithuania is that this country remained a pagan nation longer than anywhere else in Europe. Maybe it is no surprise that they celebrate Halloween with such vigour!

Around Halloween time, this small neighbourhood comes alive with spooky traditions. The annual carved jack-o’-lantern tradition creates an eerie, glowing display of creepy faces and fangs in the windows in October. Every year, the river banks are lit up with glowing, intricately carved jack-o’-lanterns, both large and small.

carved pumpkin with three ghost picks on top on a riverbank in Vilnius Lithuania

This tradition started as a way to unite the community and create a sense of togetherness and has since flourished into a beloved annual event in Vilnius. Additionally, the neighbourhood hosts a wide variety of fun activities for both kids and adults, like pumpkin carving events, free art workshops, and face painting.

Visitors are more than welcome and encouraged to join in on the festivities. Hands down, Vilnius, Lithuania is one of the most interesting places to spend Halloween.

Submitted by Monica from This Rare Earth

Calcata, Italy

Regarding holidays, Italy is at its best in small villages off the beaten path. Calcata is a village of fewer than 1,000 inhabitants located about 50 km north of Rome.

Of these few inhabitants, the most extravagant slice comprises about 50 people and lives in the village’s historic center. Calcata Vecchia lies on a spur of tufa rock in the middle of a valley of dense woods. The picturesque setting has, since the 1960s, attracted independent artists and alternative characters from all parts of the world.

At that time there was still no water in the houses, there was instead a great desire to create and be different, to live far from the galloping industrialization in the Western world.

Little Calcata Vecchia is still home to dozens of artists and artisans who live and have their galleries and workshops in the old stone houses. Traditional Italian holidays do not interest alternative artists. Instead, Halloween, a foreign holiday, is the perfect opportunity to express all one’s extravagance and originality.

So the village’s workshops and restaurants, which usually open only on weekends, organize special openings and exhibitions for the evening of Oct. 31st. At the Bard House Gypsy local bands play live music.

narrow street in calcata Italy

The gurgling of the river in the valley at the foot of the village accompanies you as you explore the dimly lit alleys, where you can meet the artists who populate the village. There is also said to be a witch in Calcata, who can talk to magpies and crows.

The houses and shops carved into the stone undoubtedly evoke an ancient and mysterious past.

October is the perfect month to explore the wild forests that surround the village. If you like walking in nature, you can walk down to the river along its banks. The forests hide ancient rocky necropolises dating back a few centuries B.C.

By Lisa of Travel Connect Experience

Walt Disney World, Florida

When looking for a fun destination to celebrate the spooky season, Walt Disney World Resort in Florida may not be the first place that comes to mind. However, there is actually so much to do at the Most Magical Place on Earth, not only for Halloween, but the entire fall season.

One of the things that makes Walt Disney World a great Halloween destination is Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party at the Magic Kingdom.  This special ticketed event happens after the park closes for normal hours and runs late into the night, giving it a very exclusive feel.

Not only do you get to trick or treat through the park, but you can also see special characters including some of Disney’s favourite villains, take in your favourite rides with a Halloween twist, and watch the Sanderson Sisters perform live on stage!

You can even grab some exclusive Halloween-themed snacks (think Zombie finger cookies or Minnie-shaped Pumpkin Cheesecake) and catch the best parade at Walt Disney World… Mickey’s “Boo to You” Halloween Parade. Before you say goodnight, be sure to watch Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular Firework show that lights up the night sky above Cinderella Castle.

mickey’s boo to you parade at Walt Disney world in Florida, one of the best places to celebrate Halloween around the world for kids

If you want a little more of an adult feel, consider spending the day at EPCOT where you can take part in the International Food and Wine Festival!  This festival takes place every fall and is a great treat when visiting Walt Disney World in October. Throughout the park, you will find a variety of Global Marketplaces that bring flavours from all around the world together in one place.  You can drink and dine around the world and to your heart’s content without ever leaving the park! 

On top of these fantastic Halloween traditions, the parks and resorts are beautifully decorated for the fall with Mickey Jack-o-Lanterns, beautiful fall wreaths, and festive scarecrows!  There is no better way to spend the Halloween season than at the Most Magical Place on Earth!

Submitted by Tina Tolbert of Hey Mickey Travel

Toronto, Canada

Located in the heart of Canada, Toronto is an exciting city known for its diversity and vibrant atmosphere. In October, the city hosts countless Halloween activities for all ages to enjoy. From family-friendly events to thrilling experiences, there is something for everyone in Toronto during Halloween.

Kids will enjoy events such as Boo at the Zoo, where they can arrive in costume, watch the grizzly and polar bears play with 200+ pound pumpkins, and wander through the pumpkin patch. Casa Loma hosts the Legends of Horror, a 2-kilometre outdoor trail through an immersive theatrical experience.

And for those seeking more of a thrill, Canada’s Wonderland transforms into Halloween Haunt, with over 700 monsters roaming the park and numerous haunted mazes to explore.

lighted pumpkin lights overhead at Canada’s wonderland at halloween

There are also more low-key experiences such as pumpkin patches, apple picking, haunted walks, and ghost tours throughout the city. Of course, children are invited to dress up and go trick-or-treating on October 31, and for adults, many bars and clubs host Halloween events where Halloween costumes are highly encouraged!

Ultimately, travelling to Toronto in October is a delightful experience. The city’s numerous parks and ravines transform into a sea of red, orange, and yellow leaves, making it one of the most picturesque places in the world to be during the autumn.

No matter what your age or interests may be, Halloween in Toronto will not disappoint. With endless activities and events to choose from, you are sure to have a fantastic time in this diverse and lively city. So grab your costume and embrace the Halloween spirit in Toronto this October!

Submitted by Julie from Toronto to Anywhere

Savannah, Georgia

One of the most fun places to celebrate Halloween, if you want action-packed activities, is Savannah, Georgia. The whole community really gets into the fall and Halloween spirit and fills their front porches with pumpkins, skeletons and other fun and creative Halloween decorations!

Savannah is a great place for a romantic getaway for Halloween as there are a lot of adult Halloween activities to enjoy in the month of October. Two of the best are the Savannah Official Halloween Bar Crawl and the Halloween Party at the Flying Fish Bar and Grill.

If you are bringing the family with you, there are also lots of fun family-friendly Halloween events and activities that the kids will love.

A must-do event with the family is the annual Savannah “Wag-O-Ween”. This fundraising event in downtown Savannah sees pets and their humans dress up in Halloween costumes and follow a map to over 100 businesses, which give out dog treats. You can purchase a pass to participate in the event or just walk around the downtown area and observe the amazing costumes!

If you decide to bring your furry friend with you on vacation, there is also a fun costume contest called the “Ultimate Halloween Bash at Electric Moon” at JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District (a great place to stay in the area) where you and your pet are judged on the creativity and originality of your costumes.

Submitted by Bett of Couple Travel The World

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is probably not the first place you’d think of visiting for Halloween. And that would make sense since locals do not typically go trick-or-treating or carve pumpkins too much. However, there is an old local tradition that goes on at the same time: La Castanyada. 

La Castanyada, which means “Chestnut Festival” in Catalan, has its roots in honouring the dead, much like Halloween. However, while Halloween has a lot more outward energy, La Castanyada focuses on spending time with your loved ones and sharing treats, washed down with sweet wine.

arched walkway over the street in Barcelona Spain

Days before October 31st, stalls appear all over the city, selling chestnuts and sweet potatoes roasted over charcoal fire to fight off the cold that starts to set in. In fact, there is the traditional figure of “La Castanyera”, a roasted chestnut vendor. This is typically an old woman in humble clothing, that is venerated during these events, with children drawing them and even dressing up like them.

On top of that, locals make a traditional sweet called “panellets”, which are bite-sized marzipan pastries covered in pine nuts. People make them at home and in schools, but you can get them in basically any bakery or pastry shop!

You can enjoy the heartwarming tradition of La Castanyada anywhere in the city, but it is especially delightful in the Old Town of Barcelona, where the cobblestone streets, ancient architecture and narrow alleyways add a layer of beauty and melancholy. I suggest that you have a tour of the Gothic and Born quarters in Barcelona and enjoy chestnuts, sweet potatoes and panellets with some of Barcelona’s main attractions, such as the Barcelona Cathedral, Santa Maria del Mar or the insta-famous Pont del Bisbe.

Submitted by Guillem of Feast of Travel 

Dublin, Ireland

Halloween is celebrated in many parts of the world, with various events and activities that reflect the spooky and festive nature of the holiday.     

One of the best places to celebrate Halloween around the world is Dublin, the capital and largest city of Ireland, located on the island’s eastern coast within the province of Leinster.

Halloween in Dublin offers a variety of special activities, traditions, and events, such as costume parties, trick-or-treat, and pumpkin picking. And there are also haunted attractions for thrill seekers. These activities are best suited for adults and young adult families with children.

Spooky and beautiful Halloween decoration with many pumpkins, burning candle on the stairs and ghost on the door. Spooky and scary Halloween 2020 decoration, Dun Laoghaire, Dublin, Ireland

There are venues where you can expect to find Halloween celebrations. You can experience Halloween in Temple bar for Halloween theme parties and events and in Malahide Castle, located in northern Dublin, where it hosts a special event every year.

Do not forget to book a Dublin Ghost Bus tour, where costumed actors share ghost stories and legends while you explore the city’s dark and mysterious side.

The festive atmosphere in Dublin, diverse activities, and friendly locals make it a perfect place to celebrate Halloween.

Aside from the Halloween celebration, there are still things to do in Dublin in October; you can explore Dublin Castle, visit Kilmainham Gaol, and Guinness storehouse if you are a history buff.

You can add Dublin Museums to your itinerary if you visit Dublin in October.

Be sure to check local event listings for specific activities and events during your visit.

Submitted by: Imee Magbag of Ireland Travel Guides

Madeira, Portugal

For a unique Halloween trip, head to the most stunning island in Portugal and visit Madeira’s Fanal Forest, one of the world’s only remaining laurel forests. 

Located in the heart of Madeira, the ancient Fanal Forest is a mysterious fairytale-like destination steeped in enchantment and wonder. Its giant laurel trees are constantly shrouded in mist, creating a spooky ambiance unlike any other in the world. The low-hanging fog, eerie silence, and otherworldly sights make this the perfect place for a Halloween getaway. 

Fanal Forest is best suited for active travelers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking for their next off-the-beaten-path destination. Its unique flora and fauna, coupled with its haunting beauty, provide a one-of-a-kind experience that blends the thrill of Halloween with the tranquility of nature. 

The best things to do in October include the Vereda do Fanal and Levada dos Cedros hikes which allow you to explore the forest’s misty pond and centuries-old Ocotea Foetens trees. For an extra thrill, plan a camping trip to the area and tell ghost stories around the campfire.

Make sure to pack rain gear since October is the beginning of Madeira’s rainy season. However, the rain only enhances the mystical allure of the forest, making it an even more compelling visit. In fact, those who visit Madeira are often hoping for a bit of rain so they can see this mysterious forest at its most enchanting!

Submitted by Sydney of Sydney to Anywhere


Final Thoughts: Best Places to Celebrate Halloween Around the World

Halloween celebrations take on a myriad of forms, from ancient Celtic traditions to modern festivals and fantastic parades. Whether you’re looking for unique cultural celebrations to more traditional costumed festivals, there are plenty of interesting places to celebrate Halloween around the world.

Where are you going to celebrate Halloween this year? 

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