Though Halloween originally started in Ireland, where the Celts celebrated Samhain using candles inside carved beet-roots instead of pumpkins, it has become a distinctly American holiday. However, Europeans are gradually getting in on the fun as well.
If you find yourself in Europe during this spooky time of year, don’t worry—there are plenty of thrilling Halloween activities to enjoy:
At Oxford Castle, you can experience the annual Ghost Fest, which includes Trick or Treating, After Dark Dinners, and Ghost hunts. The entire month of October is packed with events for all ages and levels of bravery. Some highlights are the Truth & Dare Tours, a Halloween midnight tour, family-friendly Trick or Treating, pumpkin carving during October half term, and overnight Ghost Hunts.
In Retz, an area famous for its yearly pumpkin harvest, the Kürbisfest or pumpkin festival is a must-see. It features pumpkin carving, parades, and parties. Be prepared, as much of the information is in German.
Shops and stores along the pedestrian shopping street, Karl Marx Allee, are decorated with orange pumpkins and hairy spiders. You can also visit the Fernsehturm, dubbed “The highest Bat Nest in Berlin,” from October 29 to November 4, to enjoy Halloween decorations along with stunning views of the city. If you arrive after Halloween, the festive Christmas markets start at the end of November.
Corinaldo, located in central Italy’s Marche region, has earned the title of the Italian Capital of Halloween. Every year during the last week of October, they hold “La Notte delle Streghe” or “The Feast of Witches.” To learn more about the events in this medieval town, visit their website.
I also came across a funny post from an American living in Madrid, pointing out that locals there might be a bit old-fashioned or lackluster when it comes to Halloween costumes. To see how Halloween is interpreted in Spain, check out this list of events in Madrid.
For a truly immersive Halloween experience, go all out the American way at Disneyland Paris! Disney’s Halloween Party at Disneyland Park offers a night-time extravaganza for the entire family, complete with extra chills and thrills.
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