While Halloween is strongly associated with the U.S., other countries celebrate it in unique ways:
- Mexico: Celebrated as Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) from October 31 to November 2, it’s a time to honor deceased loved ones with altars, offerings, and colorful skulls.
- Ireland and Scotland: Halloween, or Samhain, remains deeply rooted in its Celtic origins here, with traditions such as bonfires and fortune-telling. People also carve turnips instead of pumpkins.
- Japan: In recent years, Halloween has become a major event in Japan, with extravagant street parties and parades in major cities like Tokyo, where people dress up in detailed costumes.
- Italy: The tradition of remembering the dead is strong in Italy, with families visiting cemeteries on All Saints’ Day. However, Halloween is becoming more commercial, with costume parties and trick-or-treating gaining popularity.
Pro Tip: Exploring how Halloween is celebrated across cultures adds a deeper appreciation for the holiday.