Spooky, scary skeletons will be around the corner soon! For expats, Halloween is the perfect opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture while having a great time. Put on your costume and read about the 5 traditions to make your Halloween unforgettable.
Halloween in Europe
Instead of Halloween, most European countries have been celebrating All Saints Day for centuries. It happens on November 1st and is a religious holiday during which people honour the saints and the dead. Europeans visit cemeteries, decorate the graves with flowers and candles, and cook traditional meals.
Halloween itself isn’t rooted in European traditions, but it’s gradually changing. Having fun, dressing up and enjoying the nightlife becomes more and more popular, especially among the youngsters. European Halloween isn’t boring — and we’ll prove it to you in this article.
Five Halloween ideas
Pumpkin festivals
If you’re a huge fan of pumpkins or crave for some iconic experiences in your life, visit a pumpkin festival. At such events, everything is about pumpkins — recipes, sculptures, competitions, and even boat rides (like whose idea it initially was???). Going to these events will definitely make your Halloween memorable.
Ghost tours
If you want to test your bravery, join a ghost tour to explore cities after dark. You’ll listen to stories that send shivers down your spine and uncover hidden history. The streets have a lot to tell; are you ready to hear it?
Costume parties
Halloween is the time when you can be someone else. Shop online, DIY, be creative and shine in that brand-new look. Then gather your friends at home or go clubbing — don’t waste the outfit on a boring day. And, honestly, the funnier your idea, the better.
Home decorations
If you have flatmates, decorate your house together; it’ll be a great bonding moment. In case you live alone, turn the flat into a vampire castle, haunted city or dark forest by yourself. Bring out all your fantasies and don’t forget the candles! Add fun to these cold autumn nights and summon the holiday spirit.
Horror movie nights
Must-haves for the perfect movie night: popcorn, Halloween-themed treats and drinks, candles, and a blanket to hide under when you’re too scared. You and your friends can spice it up together; for example, take a shot each time you cringe or get scared. It’ll make the films ten times funnier.
Bonus idea: Celebrate with family back home
Here’s how you can spend precious time with your loved ones even from far away:
- Conduct a photo competition: decide who is the king or the queen of the house decoration.
- Watch movies together. A simple solution that works flawlessly.
- Cook one recipe and then compare the results. Create a masterpiece from pumpkies, candies or cookies or make the worst-looking meal inspired by horrors.
- Come up with scary stories and share them in the chat.
- Play online Halloween games or join virtual parties.
Every holiday is the time to share, and Halloween is no exception. Help your family financially, so they can buy the best costumes and ingredients — send money back home with Profee. It’ll be fast and easy, without spooky fees and unfavourable exchange rates. Scary stories should stay as stories; that’s why Profee makes every transfer smooth and safe.
FAQ — Halloween in Europe
Do children trick or treat in Europe?
It’s not common yet, but you can see some children going from door to door asking for a treat. So, prepare candies in case a cute little ghost appears next to your entrance.
What does Europe do for Halloween?
Europeans hold themed festivals, throw parties, dress up, join movie marathons and come up with dozens of ideas to have fun together.
Where is Halloween most celebrated in Europe?
In Ireland. It’s no surprise since Halloween is rooted in the Celtic traditions.
Does Europe dress up for Halloween?
Yes, dressing up is common, especially among children and youngsters.
Where in Europe should one go for Halloween?
You can travel to Scotland, Transylvania, Prague, Paris and Corinaldo for authentic experiences.
