Think Halloween in different languages means plastic fangs and fun-size chocolate bars in wrappers you can’t read? Wrong – on multiple levels.
In fact, 31st October wears a lot of different costumes around the globe. Some are spooky, some are sweet, and some skip the putrid party altogether.
So, grab your broomstick and join us on a whirlwind tour of bone-chilling fright fests across the planet.
The Party People Who Celebrate Halloween in Different Languages
- Germany – Little monsters at the door warn “Süßes, sonst gibt’s Saures” = “Sweets, or it’s sour for you”. Who dares argue with that?
- Ireland – This is where it all began, so naturally they claim to do it best. Derry throws one of Europe’s biggest Halloween bashes. And you’ll find bonfires, fruity barmbrack and spooky carved turnips everywhere.
- Japan – Tokyo’s streets become a giant costume catwalk, where going all in on cosplay, dressing to impress and wishing everyone a Happī Harōin is the order of the day.
- Mexico – Día de los Muertos rolls out the welcome mat for the dead to walk once more. For this purpose, families build colourful ofrendas piled with marigolds, sugar skulls and their dearly departed’s favourite snacks to rouse them from their eternal sleep.
Spooky Assortment
- Brazil – Some Brazilians celebrate Dia das Bruxas (Witches’ Day). Others champion Saci Day, which honours a cheeky one-legged trickster from Brazilian folklore.
- Catalonia – La Castanyada swaps sweets and chocolate for roast chestnuts and delicious little almond cakes called panellets.
- Costa Rica – 31st October means masquerade, specifically calling for giant handmade folklore masks.
- France – The real star of spooky season is La Toussaint (All Saints’ Day) on 1st November, which is a calm and reflective day for visiting family graves. Although fancy dress parties happen too, soundtracked by bloodcurdling cries of “Des bonbons ou un sort!” = “Sweets or a spell!”
No Delight in Fright
- China – Halloween isn’t a big deal here. Instead, spirits get their moment during the Hungry Ghost Festival in summer.
- Mongolia and Uzbekistan – Authorities sometimes discourage Halloween celebrations, preferring to protect local traditions instead.
- Russia – It’s not officially banned, but the church and government keep it at arm’s length as an undesirable Western import.
Treat Yourself to Another Language This Spooky Season
So, which side are you on when it comes to Halloween in different languages? Team pumpkin, team marigold or team chestnut?
At la Academia, every celebration is a brilliant excuse to learn a new phrase.
Get in touch and book a class or course in whichever language sends shivers down your spine.