While Halloween, or All Saint’s Eve, is most popular in America, countries around the world are beginning to adopt the holiday. If you’re an American abroad this week, here are a few fun ways to celebrate.
Halloween in Italy
If you’re in Italia with your family, check out the Gardaland amusement park near Lake Garda for Magic Halloween. If you’re looking for something a little more spooky, take a tour of Chiesa dei Morti (Church of the Dead) in Urbania or The Mummies Museum in Ferentillo. Read more at About.com: Go Italy.
Halloween in France
Halloween celebrations are still very uncommon in France, but American expats and tourists can still find fun on October 31. Children will love the festivities at Disneyland Paris, while students don their costumes for a party at The American Dream Diner. For the most genuine French Halloween, head over to the city of Limoges for their Halloween parade! Read more at France Travel Guide.
Halloween in Germany
Some children in Germany do go Trick-or-Treating (“Süßes oder Saures!”), but there are several other German customs similar to Halloween that occur during Autumn. The German-speaking Austrian towns of Retz and Pulkau host an annual Kürbisfest, or Pumpkin Festival. In Berlin, check out the live production of Rocky Horror Picture Show on October 31. And be sure to stick around in Germany until Nov. 11 for Martinstag, a German Catholic tradition that features costumes and a lantern procession for children. Read more at German Way.
Halloween in Mexico
In Mexico, they celebrate Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) on Nov. 1 or 2 instead of Halloween. While skulls and skeletons abound, the holiday is considered a happy day for remembering your deceased loved ones. Oaxaca and Merida both have great festivals, but celebrations can be found throughout the country! Read more at About.com: Travel with Kids.
