Goblins, ghouls, pumpkins, and zombies! The month of October is a favorite for people all over the world. Why? Well, Halloween and Halloween-like traditions, of course!
Halloween is known for out-of-the-box costumes, candy, and everything spooky! Luna, Andy, and Carmen love to dress up and love learning about fun and spooky traditions around the world.
Today, we are learning about four different Halloween and Halloween-like traditions from around the world!
La Dia de los Muertos
La Dia de los Muertos or Day of The Dead is a celebration that originated in Mexico. Day of The Dead takes place every year on the second of November. Unlike Halloween that is portrayed as dark and spooky, Dia de los Muertos is a multi-day celebration of life and death full of color and joy! Families set up candlelit altars in their homes and leave food for the hungry spirits that may pass through. People of all ages dress up as skeletons and paint their faces to match!
Samhain
Samhain, pronounced “sah-ween” is an ancient Celtic festival of the dead. It begins on the evening of October 31 and goes until November 1. Participants prepare meals, light bonfires, and dance to honor the spirits. Traditionally, people open a door that faces west and light candles to help guide the spirits of their loved ones home!
The Hungry Ghost Festival
The Hungry Ghost Festival takes place on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month! Originating in China, this festival is celebrated by both Buddhists and Toaists. It is believed that on this day ghosts and spirits are released into the world and free to wander. It is a day to celebrate and honor ancestors and relatives who have passed. Those who take part set tables with empty seat placements and have live entertainment shows with empty front rows, all to show respect for ghosts who may pass by!
Kawasaki Halloween Parade
The Kawasaki Halloween Parade is the most famous parade in all of Japan! Each year there is a different theme that parade-goers can follow. This year’s virtual theme is “Cyberspace Costumes”. The judges pick a winner at the end of the parade who earns a cash prize. Running for more than twenty years, the Kawasaki Halloween Parade is an opportunity for people to show off their creativity and talent!
Luna wats to see your costumes! Take a picture and be sure to tag @LetsGoLunaHQ in all your Halloween photos!
Until our next travel adventure…