Explore Some Interesting Halloween Traditions From Across The Globe
Based on where you live, Halloween is called All Hallows' Eve, All Saint's Eve, or Allhalloween.
Halloween is around the corner, and people from across the globe are accustomed to the American version of the spooky festival: bizarre costumes, the custom of trick-or-treating, themed candy bars, and jack-o’-lanterns. But did you know the American way is not the only way of celebrating Halloween? Let us take a quick look at some interesting and lesser-known Halloween traditions from around the world.
Belgium: All Saint's Day and Halloween
In Belgium, Halloween is celebrated in some villages, while in other villages, people celebrate All Saints' Day. On this night, Belgians light a candle in memory of their deceased relatives.
Austria: Kürbisfest im Retzer Land or Pumpkin Festival
Austria celebrates a Pumpkin Festival called Kürbisfest im Retzer Land in Retzer Land. Austrians on November 11, celebrate Martini, which involves wearing costumes and attending a lantern procession. Some Austrians even believe that on this day, if they leave a lighted lamp, water, and bread outside, it will welcome dead souls back to earth, but only for that night.
China: The Hungry Ghost Festival or the Teng Chieh Festival
China’s Hungry Ghost Festival, or Teng Chieh, is not typically a Halloween tradition. Instead, it is recognized as part of an old Daoist custom that guides the spirits residing on earth. On the Ghost Month’s (7th Lunar month) fifteenth day, the people offer food, water, and light incense at dusk and place them before the photos of their deceased relatives. It is believed that the spirits then determine if they should bestow punishments or blessings upon their living family members.
Ireland: Samhain or All Hallowtide
It is in Ireland that the most interesting and unique Halloween customs are practiced. Did you know that the modern festival of Halloween originated from Samhain or “All Hallowtide” a pagan Irish festival marking the close of summer? An age-old Samhain custom involves preparing and eating a dense cake called Barmbrack, which is typically loaded with raisins, candied citrus, and currants. Another unique Irish tradition is "knock-a-dolly"; it involves kids who mischievously knock on the doors of their neighbors and run away to avoid getting caught.
México: Día de Los Muertos or The Day of the Dead
No other country celebrates Halloween the way Mexicans do. The Day of the Dead is technically not the same as Halloween, but rather a day dedicated to honoring the deceased family members and friends. It is celebrated on November 2, and the people of Mexico believe that the spirits visit earth on this day.
Celebration of the spiritual afterlife is beautiful in every culture, don’t you agree?
