Halloween, Día de Muertos, and other eerie celebrations worldwide

As autumn transitions into the lengthy, shadowy winter months, the northern hemisphere embraces a range of spooky and vibrant festivities, from Samhain and All Souls’ Day to Día de Muertos and the classic All Hallow’s Eve.

These annual observances are among the oldest in the world and often carry misconceptions.

Throughout history, various cultures—from Aztec to Celtic—have marked the end of October and the first two days of November as a period when the spirits of the deceased were believed to return and mingle with the living. Costume-wearing was traditionally thought to protect against these wandering souls.

Before dismissing Halloween as merely a child’s affair of tricks and treats, consider visiting a city that honors its traditions—and its revelry—with gusto. From the wild festivities of New Orleans to the vibrant celebrations in Hong Kong’s trendiest party district, here are five premier Halloween destinations around the globe.

Embrace your pagan spirit at Samhain in Dublin, Ireland

Rooted in Druid and Celtic traditions, Samhain translates to 'summer’s end.' With its deep Celtic heritage and its association with the famed author of Dracula, Dublin presents a beautifully mysterious take on the holiday.

Annual festivities include a lively carnival parade and traditional bonfires scattered throughout the city. Interested in blending horror with history? Consider embarking on a haunted tour of Dublin or joining gothic horror fans at the Bram Stoker Festival, featuring séances, theatrical shows, and more.

For an otherworldly celebration steeped in ancient traditions, be sure to experience the superstition-filled events at the National Leprechaun Museum. In addition to Celtic-inspired tales and games, be prepared to encounter costumed figures from Irish folklore.

Celebrate with the spirits on Día de Muertos in Oaxaca, Mexico

The term Día de Muertos, which translates to “Day of the Dead” in Spanish, carries a mystical resonance that perfectly reflects the vibrant energy of this Mexican cultural hub. Celebrated during the Catholic holidays of All Saints’ Day (November 1) and All Souls’ Day (November 2), this festival, influenced by Aztec traditions, honors the memories of loved ones who have passed away.

The festival takes place in various cities across Mexico, but it truly reaches its pinnacle in Oaxaca. The streets come alive with parades, vibrant markets, and costumed participants wearing strikingly grotesque masks. In nearby graveyards, families go all out to create elaborately decorated tombstones, adorned with intricate flowers and illuminated by the flickering glow of countless candles. Don’t forget to visit a panaderia (bakery), where an astonishing variety of morbid sweet treats awaits. Sample a sugar-spun coffin or the traditional eggy, yeasty pan de muerto (bread of the dead).

Get ready to celebrate at a theme park party in Hong Kong

Combine a lively mix of international expats with local traditions, and you’ve got one of Asia’s most vibrant Halloween festivities. The Lan Kwai Fong district serves as the hub of all-night celebrations. The restaurants and bars here take their Halloween decorations very seriously, making it the perfect spot to kick off the evening with a festive dinner and drinks in a captivating atmosphere.

For an unforgettable Halloween experience, nothing beats a visit to the theme parks in Hong Kong. Ocean Park goes all out with spine-tingling attractions, featuring immersive haunted experiences and thrilling street performances (be sure to book tickets in advance). Bringing kids along? Head to Hong Kong Disneyland, where iconic Disney villains like Maleficent, Jafar, Cruella, and Captain Hook take center stage for the evening. Expect an array of special effects, from a ghostly roller coaster to dazzling pyrotechnics that will amaze even the most seasoned adults.

Vampires and voodoo in New Orleans’ French Quarter, USA

Imagine the revelry of Mardi Gras infused with witch costumes, a chilling soundtrack, and a sprinkle of voodoo magic—that’s what a Halloween in the Big Easy looks like. With a captivating dark allure celebrated year-round, this vibrant city ramps up the spookiness in unique fashion as October draws to a close. (Plus, the weather is ideal for showcasing your daring costume.) Anticipate a grand celebration that stretches over several days, with parades and street parties culminating in a spectacular finale on October 31.

For a decadently wicked atmosphere, begin your journey on the infamous Bourbon Street and parade through the vibrant heart of the Vieux Carré (French Quarter), where an extravagant display of Halloween attire awaits. From elegant balconies, revelers toss down “treats” (Mardi Gras beads) to the crowds below in exchange for “tricks” (usually just a smile and a wave... but expect much more).

Feeling adventurous? Make your way to historic Jackson Square to consult a mystic, embark on a moonlit cemetery tour, or don your most daring outfit at the city’s hottest event, the Endless Night Vampire Ball (where a strict costume dress code is enforced).

Join the spooky festivities with the Village crowd in New York City, USA

Since 1973, this legendary parade—said to be the largest Halloween celebration in the world, drawing an estimated two million participants—has become a quintessential New York experience. Arrive early to secure a prime viewing spot on Sixth Ave in the West Village, where the entire city converges for a genuine melting-pot atmosphere.

From the vibrant people-watching (imagine a provocative display of costumes meant to excite, shock, and perplex) to fantastical floats, enormous puppets, live music, and circus acts, this alcohol-free event offers a uniquely chaotic delight that can only be found in New York.

Ready to join the celebration? This year’s theme is “Upside Down / Inside Out.” Arrive by 6pm to line up for the parade, but remember: a creative costume is essential. There are prizes for the best-dressed participants—and you can find plenty of inspiration from past years on Instagram. If crafting a costume isn’t in the cards for you but you still want to get involved, consider volunteering as a puppet animator or in other roles.