Halloween Around the World: How It’s Celebrated in Spain, Colombia, Peru, Costa Rica, and Mexico

Halloween is often associated with American traditions like trick-or-treating, costumes, and spooky decorations. But in many countries, this celebration has its own unique twist, blending local culture and customs with familiar Halloween elements. Let’s take a look at how Halloween is celebrated in Spain, Colombia, Peru, Costa Rica, and Mexico.

Spain: A Time for Reflection and Fun

In Spain, Halloween (or "Noche de Brujas") has been growing in popularity, particularly among younger generations. However, it's not traditionally as widespread as in other countries. Halloween celebrations often lead up to Día de Todos los Santos (All Saints’ Day) on November 1, a time to remember the dead and visit cemeteries to honor lost loved ones. The blend of fun and reflection creates a unique atmosphere where spooky costume parties meet solemn family traditions. Cities like Madrid and Barcelona host Halloween-themed events, and children now go trick-or-treating in certain areas, while the traditional focus on honoring the dead remains strong.

Colombia: A Blend of Halloween and Día de los Muertos

In Colombia, Halloween is widely celebrated, especially among children who love to dress up in costumes and go door-to-door for candy. Known as Día de las Brujas (Day of the Witches), Colombians have embraced the modern, commercial aspects of Halloween. Schools, malls, and businesses host Halloween parties and costume contests throughout the country.

However, what sets Colombia apart is how Halloween is celebrated alongside Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), which takes place on November 1 and 2. In certain regions, Colombians observe this day by visiting cemeteries, decorating graves, and paying respect to deceased loved ones, blending the playful with the spiritual in a unique fusion of traditions.

Peru: A Growing Halloween Culture

Halloween is increasingly popular in Peru, where children and teenagers eagerly take part in trick-or-treating, known locally as pedir Halloween. In larger cities like Lima, you’ll find costume parties, spooky decorations, and even haunted houses designed to thrill and scare. While Halloween in Peru largely mirrors Western practices, there is still a strong focus on Día de Todos los Santos on November 1, which is a public holiday. Families visit cemeteries, and some regions hold religious ceremonies to honor deceased ancestors. As Halloween grows, there’s a noticeable balance between the fun, commercial aspects of the holiday and the traditional focus on honoring the dead.

Costa Rica: Fun and Festivities for All Ages

In Costa Rica, Halloween is a beloved holiday, especially among the younger crowd. Costa Ricans celebrate with parties, costumes, and trick-or-treating, particularly in larger cities and tourist areas. However, unlike in North America, Costa Rica does not have as deep a connection with the concept of Halloween being about the dead or the supernatural. It’s simply a fun excuse to dress up, enjoy candy, and host lively gatherings. Some schools and communities organize Halloween parades and events, making it a family-friendly celebration.

While Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) isn’t as widely celebrated in Costa Rica as in neighboring countries, you may find smaller ceremonies or events honoring loved ones. Still, Halloween remains mostly a lighthearted, social holiday in Costa Rican culture.

Mexico: The Profound Día de los Muertos Tradition

When people think of Mexico and October 31 to November 2, the first thing that comes to mind is Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), not Halloween. While Halloween is celebrated, particularly by children who go trick-or-treating and attend costume parties, it is often overshadowed by the profound cultural significance of Día de los Muertos.

This tradition is a deeply spiritual celebration where families gather to honor the memory of deceased loved ones. Vibrant altars, or ofrendas, are set up in homes and cemeteries, decorated with marigolds, candles, photos, and favorite foods of the departed. Celebrants believe that the souls of the dead return during these days to visit their families. Far from being a mournful occasion, Día de los Muertos is a joyful, colorful event filled with music, food, and togetherness. In cities like Mexico City and Oaxaca, you’ll find spectacular parades, face painting (in the form of the iconic sugar skull), and public altars on full display.

Conclusion: A Colorful Fusion of Cultures

While Halloween is celebrated in different ways across Spain, Colombia, Peru, Costa Rica, and Mexico, it’s fascinating to see how each country infuses local traditions into the holiday. In some places, Halloween’s spooky and fun elements are embraced, while in others, it’s intertwined with deeper, spiritual customs. From lively costume parties to heartfelt moments of remembrance, these celebrations highlight the rich cultural diversity found in Latin America and Spain.

At Travec, we encourage travelers to immerse themselves in these cultural experiences, whether it’s joining a lively Halloween party in Colombia or participating in a traditional Día de los Muertos celebration in Mexico. Each country offers a unique way to celebrate this festive season, making it the perfect time to explore and connect.