Spooky season is on the horizon. You know what that means, don’t you? More frightening costumes, ecstatic trick-or-treating children, vibrant pumpkin patches, and fireworks exploding deep into the night the closer we get to October 31st.
Celebrating All Hallows’ Eve in your hometown may be fun, but I’m sure you like the sound of spending it somewhere else to see how the traditions differ. Am I right? I thought so! If you’re looking to give yourself the creeps in a new location or just want to spend Halloween in a fun destination you’ve never visited, this guide will open your eyes to a bunch of new ideas.
Where Is the Biggest Halloween Celebration?
It’s hard to select one place that celebrates Halloween the best, as every country has its own traditions. However, a good place to start is my homeland, Ireland , where the festival is said to have originated more than 2000 years ago (although some scholars would argue this). The concept is believed to come from the Celtic Festival of Samhain, which was a sacred festivity Pagans held closely to their hearts to signal the end of harvest season and the beginning of the darker half of the year. You could say that some of the traditions are similar today, as even back then, they lit flaming bonfires and dressed up in crazy costumes to keep spirits away. Only we Irish, well, at least most of us, aren’t trying to face up to the ghosts nowadays.
The ancient Celtic Festival of Samhain marks the transition from autumn to winter with bonfires and mystical rituals © Getty Images
Ireland goes all out when it comes to Halloween, but that’s not to suggest we have the biggest celebration. Other countries celebrate with just as much enthusiasm as we do, such as Canada, the US, and Mexico for el Día de los Muertos , which is on the 1st and 2nd of November in the UK. Even countries in Asia like Japan are hoping on the trend, so it’s becoming more popular internationally. But of course, there’s that extra charm it has because it’s said it has its roots here.
Where Are the Best Places to Go for Halloween?
I know the question you have on your mind next: where are the best places to go for Halloween? Unlike Christmas, with most major cities having a big reputation for hosting festive markets, Halloween tends to go slightly more unnoticed. However, lucky for you, we’ve put our thinking hats on and found the more authentic places to check out on October 31st. We split them up into genuinely scary locations and fun options so there’s something for everyone.
Spooky Places to Go for Halloween for Adults
Transylvania, Romania
Ask anyone, and they’ll tell you that Transylvania is one of the best European Halloween destinations. This is one of Romania’s main cultural regions where the famous vampire Dracula was born. Although he wasn’t actually a real person, there was a real ‘Dracula,’ known as Vlad the Impaler, who came from here. To say he was evil would be an understatement; he was notorious for his horrible ways of killing people, and some believe his soul still lingers in the background today.
If that doesn’t give you enough heeby jeebies, imagine exploring Gothic castles like Corvinesti Castle as darkness creeps in, and all you can hear is the sound of the wind blowing the autumn leaves in the distance.
The real attraction in Transylvania is the yearly Halloween party in Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s castle, in the Carpathian Mountains. Over 18s can buy their tickets for LEI 400 (€80.42) online before the big adults-only event. You’ll get access to the Halloween Special Tour, along with a reserved spot at the exclusive Halloween party that takes place in an expansive 600-square-meter gala tent. Many cool things are planned for the date, like a full bar and a live DJ that plays until 4 am the following morning. Don’t miss out!
Romania’s Bran Castle hosts an epic Halloween party, turning the legendary Dracula’s home into a spooky celebration © Getty Images
Salem, Massachusetts, US
Salem, Massachusetts, has long been associated with the harrowing event of the Salem Witch Trials, which saw 19 people who were suspected of being witches to be executed by hanging between 1692 and 1693.
While the scars still remain across the city, these days, the local community has opened up to the public to tell stories about what happened, especially during Halloween. A month-long Festival of the Dead is hosted here, with many frightening happenings across October. Some of these include the authentic psychic reading at the Salem Psychic Fair and Witches’ Market and the sacred and magical ceremony of Halloween at the Salem Magic Ritual.
An aerial view of Salem, Massachusetts, where history and Halloween merge in the birthplace of the infamous witch trials © Getty Images
For those interested in learning more about the devasting Witch Trials, you can visit sites like the Rebecca Nurse Homestead ($10 (€9.27)) to see the home of one of those who were hung or the Danvers Witch Trials Memorial (free). The Witch House is also another fantastic attraction; it’s a museum that has all the nitty gritty information about the Witch Trials and how they played out. But be mindful that over Halloween, tickets sell up fast ($8.25 (€7.65).
Fun and Exciting Cities That Adults Will Appreciate This Halloween
Oaxaca, Mexico
Of all places to spend your Halloween in Mexico, what makes Oaxaca so special? You may have heard of the wild Day of the Dead festival, or what Mexicans call it, Dia de los Muertos, held here on November 1st and 2nd.
The celebration is all about families welcoming their deceased loved ones back in spirit, sharing meaningful moments with them through meals, buzzing parades, and a variety of exciting activities. Pretty wild, I know. And before you say it, I’m aware the festival is technically not held on Halloween, but the preparations start days before Halloween night, so you’ll be kept interested throughout.
While the Dia de los Muertos takes place all over Mexico, the biggest of festivities are held in Oaxaca . As Halloween night falls, local families visit the graves of the kids who have died, one of the main locations to experience this Xoxo Cemetery in Xoxocotlán around sunrise. The next day, November 1st, Oaxaca comes alive with colorful parades and bands playing music; you’ll want to head to the Etla Muerteada parade in Etla; it kicks off around midnight and continues until the following morning. On November 2nd, the pace slows down; it’s the day to remember the adults who have gone to rest by attending church and paying their respects, but some activities are still taking place in the center.
Vibrant marigolds and offerings honor the spirits during Oaxaca’s Day of the Dead celebrations, a time of remembrance and tradition © Getty Images
New Orleans, Louisiana, US
New Orleans is that one place every American has on their bucket list , but there’s a distinctive charm to this southern city once October comes along. While the innovative music culture found in the French Quarter and Creole culinary foodie flavors remain, New Orleans leans into its haunted side with a slew of spine-tingling events and experiences.
Slip by some of the city’s famous graveyards where bodies have been laid to rest in mysterious tombs on the surface. As you walk around the French Quarter, you won’t be able to miss the multiple voodoo shops open for business, where you can pick up some creepy souvenirs and find out about sacred practices.
New Orleans’ festive streets come alive with Halloween spirit © Getty Images
In need of a real spook? All over New Orleans , you’ll find haunted houses that will surely give you the fright of your life. One of the best is the Mortuary; it’s the closest thing to Nightmare on Elm Street you’ll ever see, but brace yourselves as it’s pretty damn scary how realistic this place is (tickets $25 (€23.19)).
On Halloween Night, you’ve got the Halloween Balcony Party at Cornet Restaurant (tickets $125 (€115.94)), which has three hours of open bar and incredible views of Bourbon Street, but remember, fancy dress is essential. Or, you can hit up the Queen’s Labyrinth Halloween Masquerade Ball in true lavish Gothic Rococo grandeur (tickets ($295)).
Best Freaky Towns You Should Check Out Over Halloween
Athboy, Meath, Ireland
For most of the year, Athboy is a quiet little Irish town tucked away peacefully in county Meath , but for Halloween, it’s a different story. The famous Púca Festival runs here and in neighboring Trim between October 31st and November 3rd; you don’t want to miss it. Expect chilling tales at ancient spots like the Hill of Ward, which is among the original sites for the Samhain festival. Live Irish music acts like Gavin James and Kingfishr will take center stage, many ghostly Irish legends will be told, and a couple of comedy acts will perform, too. Tickets can be purchased individually for each day, with prices starting at €19.94.
Mount Pleasant, New York, US
Home to the mysterious village of Sleepy Hollow, Mount Pleasant is a little town in New York that rests on the banks of the Hudson River. It has been widely regarded as one of the best places to go for Halloween in the US for quite a while now. The chilling reputation of this town comes from the story of the Headless Horseman in Sleepy Hollow. He was apparently the ghost of a German mercenary who took part in the American Revolution, but he was on the British side. Unfortunately, he met his end when a cannonball struck him during the Battle of White Plains, and the tale is closely associated with the town.
Halloween in this town brings all kinds of frightening fun. Head off on a haunted hay ride to see what your faith holds, or hit up the farmer’s market for some bone-chilling snack. Ginger and honey cakes, freshly baked donuts, and pumpkin pies are all on offer here, so save some room for dessert.
Must-Visit Halloween Destinations and Towns You Can’t Afford to Miss This October 31st
Whitby, Yorkshire, England
The coastal town of Whitby in North Yorkshire pulls out all the stops for Halloween. It has had its fair share of supernatural happenings over the years. From questionable shipwrecks to being mentioned in certain sections of Dracula, you’ll feel that sinister charm as soon as you arrive here.
The haunting Whitby Abbey ruins provide a perfect backdrop for eerie Halloween events and gothic tales © Getty Images
So, what’s going on in Whitby over Halloween? To start out, taking a ghost tour with a local guide from Red Hat Ghost Walk is a must (price start at around £7). Hear about the crazy things that have gone on in this seaside settlement with no explanation at all. You might be a little scared to go to sleep with the light off later that night. Afterward, move on to Whitby Abbey, which is terrifying enough as it is, but on the 31st, it gets lit up in various creepy color schemes. If you stick around until November 1st, attend the Gothic Festival with lots of emerging talents performing and plenty of freaky art and film displays (Friday £26 (€31.22) tickets or weekend tickets £50 (€60.04).
Stowe, Vermont, US
To wrap up his Halloween guide, we’re heading to the state of Vermont to the unassuming town of Stowe. Our international readers may not know much about this foresty part of the US, but our American ones sure do for its vibrant fall foliage.
A foggy morning in Stowe, Vermont, creates a magical autumn scene, blanketing the vibrant fall foliage © Getty Images
Trick-or-treat night plays a big part in Stowe, with many pop-up activities available for visitors to enjoy. The Percy Farm Corn Maze is a highlight for many. Owners of a local corn crop open it up to the public every year to give them a chance to test their navigational skills and see if they can make it out on the other side (tickets $8 (€7.41)). Another thrilling outing is the Stowe Lantern Tours; pick up your own lantern and follow a local expert on ghosts as they lead you through the town, sharing all the paranormal activity that has unfolded here (tour price $12 (€11.11) per adult).
Plan Your Halloween This Year With Our Guide
Time is running out to plan your Halloween getaway! No matter where you are, you’re just one flight away, perhaps with a quick stopover, from any of these places. From lesser-known hair-raising American towns to sinister regions where Southeast and Central Europe meet, a wicked adventure awaits.
