October is fast approaching and one thing is certain: if you haven’t made plans for Halloween, it’s time you started preparing for the scariest event of the year. We know some Halloween enthusiasts might have been planning their costumes since November 1st last year, but if you’re at a loss of how or where you want to celebrate, then you’re in luck! Take a look at our curated list of the best Halloween parties and events around the world for 2023 and make this a year to remember. From hair-raising locations like a gothic castle in Romania to colorful street parades in Japan and vampire-themed balls, each one of these events will give you goosebumps whether you believe in ghosts or not!
Dracula’s Halloween Party, Romania
If partying in the shadow of Dracula inside an ancient castle sits firmly at the top of your must-do list, this is one event you can’t miss. Party all night long on the grounds of Bran Castle, Romania, and explore a castle shrouded in mystery and spooky myths. Whether or not you believe in Dracula, this this party guarantees will be an unforgettable experience. As you explore the castle before the party, just make sure you keep your eyes peeled in case you bump into a spirit or two.
Once the party wraps up, take time to explore Bucharest and visit the Palace of Parliament, the Museum of Romania Peasant and the Romanian Antheneum, or just sit back and relax in the Cişmigiu Gardens to take it all in.
New Orleans Vampire Ball, USA
If you needed another reason to add New Orleans to your list of places to visit, the Endless Night: New Orleans Vampire Ball event is sure to delight and fright. Hosted by a leading expert on vampire subculture, this ball isn’t your average black-tie event, and is best described as a fusion between a masquerade ball and a dress-up party with a ghoulish twist. So, what’s the official dress code? First of all, there is a strict rule enforcing no superhero costumes, but fangs, masks, formal vampire wear, and elaborate baroque costumes are highly recommended!
All Souls Day, various locations across Ireland
Considered by many as the true source of the Halloween festival, the roots of this event go all the way back to ancient Pagan and Celtic rituals that were once celebrated in Ireland at the Samhain (pronounced “sow-in”) festival, and this time of year was when pagans paid homage and honored their gods while taking time to remember their loved ones who had passed.
Modern day celebrations today are nothing short of extravagant and often feature giant bonfires or traditional feasts that coincide with the end of the autumn harvest, from sunset on October 31st to November 1st. Don’t miss out on the festive extravaganza in Derry or Belfast’s Halloween Monster Mash and Fireworks Display, as both are a true spectacle to behold, with each event being family friendly.
Fun fact: The customs of Halloween were said to be introduced to America by the Irish in the mid-1800s; however, the tradition of carving pumpkins started in America as turnips were originally used in Ireland.
Kawasaki Halloween Parade, Japan
For over 20 years, visitors from all over the world flock to Kawasaki, just outside Tokyo, for the Kawasaki Halloween Parade. Entry for participation is limited and there are prizes for the best-dressed. However, it is free to watch the parade.
Día de los Muertos, Various locations in Latin America
Often confused or mistaken as an extension of Halloween festivities thanks to the colorful Calaveras (skeletons and skulls) found everywhere during the holiday, the 3-day celebration of Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) still deserves a feature on our list as one of the most notable celebrations this time of the year. On October 31st, it’s believed that loved ones and ancestors long gone make a temporary return to their earthly homes. The colorful celebrations continue all the way through November 2nd.
Unlike Halloween, there is no fright, terror or fear; festival-goers don their very best colorful costumes and actively participate in parades and parties throughout Latin America. While it’s both culturally and historically different to Halloween, a visit to Mexico or Latin America at the end of October is sure to be a memorable one.
New York City Village Halloween Parade, USA
The Irish might have been partying for centuries, but we all know that America throws some of the best Halloween parties and events around the world. The famous New York City Village Halloween Parade features a mile-long stage with thousands of attendees all wearing the very best weird and wonderful, spooky and most colorful costumes you could imagine. This is a strict costume-only festival, so don’t even think about attending if you’re not going to get involved!
Salem Witches’ Ball, USA
Our list wouldn’t be complete without a mention of Salem, known all over the world for their Witch Trials over the course of history. In this small town, however, they go all out celebrating Halloween with the infamous Salem Witches’ Ball, held on October 26th. Attendees are sure to experience a few ghoulish chills with Witch Doctors hosting rituals and ceremonies along with a room dedicated to psychic readings.
