Discover the 15 most unique Halloween festivals in Europe

Halloween in Europe originated from the Celtic festival of Samhain, which marked the change of seasons and commemorated ancestors. The symbol of pumpkins, carved into ghostly lanterns, originated from the legend of Jack O'Lantern, a man who deceived the devil. Since then, pumpkins have become a familiar symbol of Halloween, expressing the creativity and unique culture of the festival.

1. Halloween in Amsterdam, Netherlands

Mysterious space in Amsterdam during Halloween season (Photo source: Collected)

Halloween in Europe shines brightly in Amsterdam, where the atmosphere is both mystical and festive. For three days, the city transforms into a spooky destination. Clubs host creative costume parties, while haunted alleyways buzz with trick-or-treating and candlelit pumpkins.

2. Halloween in Paris, France

Colorful Halloween festival in France (Photo source: Collected)

In Paris, Halloween is a visual and audio feast. Visitors can join in vibrant costume parades, with colorful costumes, or participate in impressive costume parties. Or simply wander through uniquely decorated streets, full of Halloween style. Not stopping there, activities such as watching horror movies or trying out scary games will definitely bring unforgettable experiences.

3. Halloween in London, England

Extremely creepy tour to explore the Tower of London (Photo source: Collected)

When visiting the UK during Halloween, visitors will discover creepy and mysterious events. Visitors can join famous ghost tours at London Dungeon or Tower of London, discovering ghost stories and dark history. In addition, Halloween parades, horror movie marathons, and ghost hunting at castles and parks also bring horror and suspenseful experiences in the heart of this vibrant city.

4. Halloween in Prague, Czech Republic

Mysterious destinations when participating in Halloween Costume Festival in Europe (Photo source: Collected)

Halloween in Europe becomes especially mysterious when you set foot in Prague, the Gothic capital with its surreal beauty. The ancient medieval streets seem to take you back to the past, where mysterious stories still echo in the air.

Explore the eerie old Jewish cemetery, where each tomb seems to hold the spirit of time, or step into the Museum of Medieval Torture Instruments for a spooky experience. Especially at the Sedlec Palace with its unique skeleton decorations and admire the dimly lit Charles Bridge, all create an unforgettable Halloween experience in Prague.

5. Halloween in Germany

Famous Halloween venues in Germany (Photo source: Collected)

Halloween in Germany takes on a distinct character as children happily go out to ask for candy with the phrase "Süßes Oder Saures" instead of the traditional "trick or treat". West Berlin, with its famous American suburbs, becomes the center of spectacular costumes, showcasing enchanting creativity.

In particular, the Frankenstein Castle on the top of Darmstadt hill is the most impressive highlight. This place is not only a legendary symbol but also the stage of the largest Halloween festival in Germany, creating a spooky atmosphere and attracting thousands of tourists every year.

6. Halloween in Barcelona, Spain

Different Halloween festival in Spain (Photo source: Collected)

Halloween in Spain is different from other countries, it is not just a spooky festival, but also a time to remember and honor the dead. It starts with "Dia de las Brujas" (Day of the Witches) on October 31 and lasts until "Dia de los Muertos" (Day of the Dead) on November 2.

This is an occasion for families to gather at cemeteries, clean graves and hold outdoor parties. With the belief that the souls of their loved ones will return, they prepare their favorite foods, flowers and holy water to welcome the souls in a solemn but warm atmosphere.

7. Halloween in Edinburgh, Scotland

Halloween festival in Europe takes place in Edinburgh (Photo source: Collected)

Edinburgh is known as the “haunted” capital of Scotland. With its history linked to the Celtic festival of Samhain, this place offers a unique combination of ancient traditions and modern activities, creating a magical atmosphere that attracts all visitors.

Discover the secrets of The Anatomist room, join in the spooky games at Edinburgh Zoo, or enjoy the festive atmosphere at the Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Halloween in Edinburgh promises unmissable experiences during Halloween in Europe.

8. Halloween in Venice, Italy

Venice in Italy makes Halloween in Europe more charming and mysterious than ever. Visitors can immerse themselves in the shimmering masked balls in the lights, the endless parades through the poetic canals, and the grand historical reenactments. Venice becomes the stage for mysterious stories, drawing visitors into the flow of unforgettable experiences.

9. Halloween in Corinaldo, Italy

Bustling Halloween festival in Europe at Corinaldo, Italy (Photo source: Collected)

Corinaldo, Italy, is not only a charming destination in the beautiful natural beauty of Europe, but also the site of one of the scariest Halloween festivals. At the end of October, this peaceful town transforms into a witches' capital, covered in dark and spooky colors.

Halloween - Witches Festival, lasting 4 days, attracts brave tourists who want to explore the world of mystery and weirdness. Corinaldo is a unique Halloween experience in Europe.

10. Halloween in Switzerland

Halloween-themed house in Switzerland (Photo source: Collected)

Halloween in Europe, especially Switzerland, is famous for its shops selling costumes and magical decorations. Children all over the country dress up as witches, monsters, and cartoon villains. Pumpkins are carved into spooky shapes, with candles lit inside to ward off evil spirits.

11. Halloween in Austria

Halloween in Austria is an occasion to show gratitude to the deceased (Photo source: Collected)

Halloween in Austria has a unique and solemn character, completely different from other places. Instead of dressing up and asking for candy, people celebrate “Seleenwoche” – All Souls’ Week, which lasts from October 30 to November 8. During this occasion, families go to cemeteries to clean and decorate the graves of their loved ones, light candles and offer cakes and water to remember and pray for the souls of the deceased. This is a moment to honor family ties, express gratitude and deep respect.

12. Halloween in Bratislava, Slovakia

Unique costumes on Halloween in Bratislava, Slovakia (Photo source: Collected)

Bratislava, Slovakia, becomes the most mysterious destination during Halloween in Europe, where zombies, monsters and witches join together in the bustling festive atmosphere. This beautiful city hosts many exciting events, the most prominent of which are the Erasmus Bratislava Halloween Party and the Bratislava International Halloween Party, where you can experience colorful costume parties and exciting entertainment activities.

13. Halloween in Oravský Hrad, Slovakia

The mysterious Nosferatu castle in Slovakia (Photo source: Collected)

In Oravský Hrad, Slovakia, experience the spooky atmosphere when you explore the famous Nosferatu Castle, where history meets cinema in Friedrich Wilhelm Murnau's 1922 silent classic, inspired by “Count Dracula.” With its dark dungeons and moss-covered brick walls, it's the perfect setting for a spooky tale.

14. Halloween in Ireland

Ireland is one of the places that holds the most interesting Halloween festivals (Photo source: Collected)

Halloween in Ireland is not just a simple festival but also a journey back in time to the Celtic roots with the ancient festival of Samhain. From sunset on October 31 to sunset on November 1, Ireland is filled with a magical and vibrant atmosphere. Events reenacting traditional customs such as bonfires, puppet shows and ghost stories make visitors feel like they are lost in the world of the Celtic people. In particular, the traditional "barnbrack" cake is a wish for good luck that people cherish on this occasion.

15. Halloween in Bruges, Belgium

Bruges, known as the "Little Venice of the North," is not only famous for its poetic canals but also brings a mysterious atmosphere during the Halloween festival. When night falls, the city becomes a ghostly scene with spooky games and interesting activities.

Visitors can join dark walking tours, where guides recount creepy legends and mysterious stories about the city’s history. Be especially wary of the ghostly water ghost that parades across the Lake of Love, a thrilling experience to experience during your Bruges exploration this festive season.
After finishing your adventure through the mysterious European Halloween festivals, do you want to explore this dark and legendary world yourself? Each location is a door that opens to a unique, creepy space waiting for you. Let Vietravel accompany you to touch the magic of this festive season!

Source: https://www.vietravel.com/vn/am-thuc-kham-pha/le-hoi-halloween-o-chau-au-v15848.aspx