Halloween 2023: Unique traditions from around the world

Here are a few distinctive Halloween customs from various corners of the world.

Published on: Oct 26, 2023 1:45 PM IST

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In various regions of the world, Halloween goes by different names such as Allhalloween, All Hallows' Eve, or All Saints' Eve. Despite these shared titles, each country maintains its distinct traditions for commemorating the realms of life and death. Below are some exceptional Halloween customs from various parts of the globe.  (REUTERS)

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Día de Los Muertos, celebrated in Mexico, is a culturally vibrant tradition similar to Halloween but observed on November 1 and 2. At its core, it is a heartfelt expression of love and reverence for the souls of deceased family members.  (AFP)

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Teng Chieh, recognized in China, is another captivating Halloween tradition. Often referred to as the "Hungry Ghost Festival," Teng Chieh is an ancient Daoist observance aimed at guiding wandering spirits. It is a belief that, during this time, these spirits return to the realm of the living.  (AFP)

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Samhain, observed in Ireland, boasts one of the most intriguing Halloween traditions. Halloween itself finds its roots in Samhain, also known as "All Hallowtide," a pagan Irish festival that signals the conclusion of the summer season. In Celtic lore, Samhain is regarded as a period when the boundary between the earthly realm and the spirit world becomes remarkably delicate.  (Unsplash)

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In Italy, Halloween is not a widely recognized holiday. Instead, Italians celebrate La Festa di Ognissanti, a Christian holiday observed on November 1st each year. This holiday is dedicated to honoring all the saints, both known and unknown, who have achieved heavenly status. It serves as a day of remembrance, allowing Italians to contemplate the lives of those who have passed away.  (Unsplash)

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In France, Halloween is a relatively low-key celebration, with La Toussaint taking precedence. La Toussaint, also known as All Saints Day, is observed on November 1 and is a significant day in the country. On this occasion, the French tend to attend special church services and pay visits to cemeteries where they lay flowers on the graves of their deceased family members, making it a more solemn and widely recognized tradition compared to Halloween.  (Unsplash)