Halloween traditions around the world

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What’s this all about?Halloween, one of the world’s oldest holidays, is still celebrated today in a number of countries around the globe. It dates back all the way to Pagan times. In Mexico and other Latin American countries, El Dia de los Muertos – the Day of the Dead – honours deceased loved ones and ancestors. In countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada and the United States, adults and children alike revel in the popular Halloween holiday, which derived from ancient festivals and religious rituals. Traditions include costume parties, trick or treating, pranks and games.

1. Ireland (where it all started)In Ireland, which is where Halloween is said to have originated from, the day is still celebrated much like it is in the US. In rural areas, bonfires are lit as they were centuries ago, and all over the country, children get dressed up in costumes and spend the evening trick or treating in their neighbourhoods. After trick or treating, some people attend parties with their friends and family.

At parties, many games are played, such as apple bobbing, where there is a big bowl or cauldron of water and you have to dunk your head in the water to retrieve an apple in your mouth.

2. MexicoAmong Spanish speaking nations, Halloween is known as El Dia de los Muertos. It is a joyous and happy holiday – a time to remember friends and family who have passed away. Officialy commemorated on November 2nd, the three day celebration actually begins on the evening of October 31st. Designed to honour the dead who are believed to return to their homes on Halloween many families construct an altar in their home and decorate it with sweets, flowers, photographs and fresh water and samples of the deceased’s favourite food and drinks. Frequently, a basin and towel are left out in order that the spirit can wash prior to indulging in their feast.

3. England At one time, English children made punkies, now referred to as pumpkin carving, upon which they carved a design of their choice. They would then carry their punkies throughout the streets while singing the Punkie Night Song. In some rural areas, pumpkin lanterns were placed on gateposts to protect homes from the spirits who roamed around on the night of Halloween.

4. United StatesHalloween is usually celebrated amongst family, friends and sometimes co-workers. However, some areas hold large community events. Parties and other events may be planned on the night of Halloween or in the weekends before and after this date. Adults may celebrate by watching horror films, holding fancy dress parties or creating haunted houses or graveyards.

Children dress up in fancy dress costumes and visit other homes in their neighbourhood. At each house, they ask for sweets, snacks or a small gift. If they do not receive any of these they threaten to harm the inhabitants of the home. This is known as playing trick or treat and is supposed to happen in a friendly spirit, with no nasty or mean tricks being carried out.

5. Canada Some people put a lot of effort int0 decorating their homes, gardens and drives. They may even construct life size replica graveyards or dungeons and invite people from the neighbourhood to view their creations or hold a themed party. Other people may organise fancy dress parties for both adults and children. Popular activities at parties include watching horror films and trying to make fellow guests jump in fright.

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Halloween traditions around the world